Louis Francis Rufo Sr., accomplished gardener
Louis Francis “Lou” Rufo Sr., loving husband, dad, poppy, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. Lou was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Feb. 25, 1939, to the late Earl and Jeanette Rufo.
He was a self-taught carpenter and, through his small contracting business, constructed homes in the Philadelphia suburbs with attention to quality and detail. Lou enjoyed crabbing and fishing from a young age and, until recently, tended to crab pots and fishing in Guinea Creek, Long Neck. He was an accomplished gardener whose tomato and pepper plants led to delicious salsas, pepper jellies, chilis, and especially, clams casino. Lou enjoyed sharing the fruits of his gardening, crabbing, clamming and fishing with family, friends and neighbors. While he could be gruff at times, Lou had a soft heart and was sentimental. Most of all, he was quite a character!
Lou married the love of his life, Barbara, in 1957 and they raised their family in Folcroft, Pa. In 1971, Lou and Barbara purchased a summer place at Leisure Point. From that point, Lou enjoyed his boating and gardening, and he, Barbara and their children made happy memories with family and friends. Lou settled there full time after Barbara’s passing in 2011, and maintained many friendships in the local community. He especially enjoyed spending time with friends and looking after neighbors.
Lou was predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara (nee Dugan); his grandson and buddy, Zachary; his parents; brother Larry; and sisters Betty Phillips and Janet Scaperotto. He is survived by his daughter, Linda Smith Murray (Eric), sons Louis Jr. (Michele), Larry, and Stephen (Susan); grandchildren Stephanie Hampton, Laura, Kyle, Brendan and Ella; great-grandchildren Camden and Annabella Hampton; sister Dina Korber (Lou), and brother- and sister-in-law Fran Dugan (Marcia) and Pat Dubin (Ed). Lou is also survived by many cousins, and numerous nieces and nephews of whom he was proud.
In keeping with Lou’s wishes, there will be no service and burial will be private. Lou’s children are grateful to the many family and friends who enriched his life and invite you to share a story about Lou that would bring a laugh or warm memory. Lou enjoyed sharing good times and would love being remembered that way.
