Dolores Florence Ruff

Dolores Florence Ruff of Modesto, CA entered into heaven’s pearly gates and was welcomed with open arms on Monday, October 7, 2024 at the age of 90 years. After many months of failing health, she died peacefully at Alexander Cohen Hospice House in Hughson, CA.

Dolores was born on April 7, 1934 in Tulare, CA to Ernest Wilkerson and Eva Johnson. As a young girl she moved to Modesto, growing up in many foster homes with her sister Anne and brother Donald.

As a young woman she was strong, determined and learned how to work hard to support herself in the many processing plants and canneries in the area.

In August of 1952 she met and married the love of her life, Joseph Ruff. Together they built a home and raised two children. They were married for 47 years before the lord called Joseph home in 1999.

Dolores was the beloved matriarch of her family and a dedicated mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother always doing her best to nurture, teach and guide them as they grew. She loved to cook and tend to her many flowers and a big garden. She spent her days growing and canning her own fruits and vegetables to feed her family. After her husband passed away, she became a member of the VFW post 3199 and enjoyed cooking there for many years for their events.

Our beautiful mom and grandma had a kind, generous, loving spirit and was a true friend to all who were lucky enough to know her. She leaves us with a lasting legacy of hard work, faith and family. Her love for each of us and a life well lived. We will miss her tremendously.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, Ernest and Eva, beloved husband Joseph as well as her sister Anne, brother Donald and her cherished dog April.

She is survived by her sons, Troy (Debby) and David. Her greatest joy, 6 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Per her wishes there will be no funeral services. She was laid to eternal rest with her beloved Joseph at Lakewood Cemetery in Hughson, CA. There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Jesus said “Well done, good and faithful servant: though hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter though into the joy of thy lord.” Matthew 25:23.