East Dundee trustee loses battle with cancer

East Dundee Trustee Michael Ruffulo, who battled cancer for the last eight years, is being remembered as a vital part of the village.

Affectionately nicknamed "Mr. East Dundee," Ruffulo had a passion for civil service, particularly for organizing community events. He died Sunday at 65.

"He loved his family, and he loved his town," former Village President Dan O'Leary said. "Those were his two priorities. He was very passionate about both of those in a big way."

Ruffulo, who served nearly 16 years on the village board, began his career in public service as a member of the planning and zoning commission in 1997. First elected to the village board in 1999, Ruffulo was re-elected three times.

Village President Lael Miller said Ruffulo was one of his inspirations for running for office.

"I first met Mike back in 2007, working on some projects with the village and was just blown away by his care, his commitment, his response to the community," Miller said. "He really was the heart and soul of East Dundee community events for many years."

Ruffulo also served as treasurer of Dundee Township's Visitors Center from 1997 to 2005 and the director of the Dundee Township Fine Arts Council from 1997 to 2000.

Because of his ailing health, Ruffulo was unable to attend board meetings for the last two years. Yet he kept up with village issues.

"You'd ask him how he was, but he always wanted to know what was going with the board," Trustee Rob Gorman said. "In fact, there were a few times we needed his vote. He was always willing to help out."

Former East Dundee trustee Paul VanOstenbridge served with Ruffulo for two terms on the village board.

"He just immediately impressed me as a genuine person," VanOstenbridge said. "He put his whole heart into his work."

"Whether you agreed or disagreed with him, he always brought a cogent argument to the table," Gorman added. "It was something that made you consider your own position."

Ruffulo is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Christian; brothers Robert and Jim; and a sister, Cathy.

Visitation is 10 to 11 a.m. March 20 at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 845 W. Main St., West Dundee. Mass will follow and burial is private.