Jo-Ann Fantino Ruffolo

I lost my love of my life when her hand slipped from mine to “touch the face of God.’ Jo-Ann was the eldest child of Elizabeth de Francisci and Eugene Fantino who moved their growing family from the Bronx NY to Southern California. She attended elementary, himself gh school and university in the San Fernando Valley graduating with a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and various credentials from Cal State Northridge. She spent most of her life in public education culminating after she earned a Doctorate in Education from La Verne University. Upon graduating she went to work for UCLA and then Caltech developing and delivering career development programs for international Doctor of Philosophy students, Post Doctoral Scholars and scientists and engineers at JPL/NASA before “retiring” to Carmel to sell real estate for Coldwell Banker. Life in Carmel has been filled with Joy. We have been blessed with wonderful friends who share our interests: wild beach parties, lovely dinners and recipe exchanges, conversations about books, television shows, enjoyable Italian classes and bocci parties in the pines of Pebble Beach, exchanges in care for our kitties Fred, Ginger, Chiara and Raider, visits with Fr. Noel Barber whose international perspective on American politics stimulated conversations. Jo-Ann is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Richard, beloved sister Lisa Stamper and her wonderful family; brother Frank, his wife Sandra and their wonderful family. Their children have filled our lives with great joy. A sadness is that she did not live to see what they became. Special friends, Connie Snowden and Haydee Vitacolona must be acknowledged for their kindness and “Kitty care” while Jo-Ann was being treated at Stanford. Their assistance made the stress so much less. To be recognized is Diane Reid who is truly an Angel in a Chef’s Hat. She dedicated these last many months to being sure we had freshly prepared, wholesome meals after each treatment set. Something we so early appreciated. A Memorial Mass at the Carmel Mission where Jo-Ann served as a docent with be held January 19, 2018 at 10:00am. Reception to follow at Crespi Hall. Donations may be made in Jo-Ann's name to: The Daughters of St. Paul, 50 Saint Paul Ave, Jamaica Plains, MA 02130 Service Information