Salvatore "Sal" Ruvio
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Salvatore “Sal” Ruvio Chili: Detective Salvatore “Sal” Ruvio, Passed away March 16, 2021 at age 83. A 1955 graduate of Jefferson High, Sal entered the United States Army in 1956, where he was stationed in Japan. In 1967, Sal joined the Rochester Police Department where he was a long-time coordinator of the Maple Section. Sal was a living legend to his fellow officers, in addition to being loved and respected by the community in which he served. Sal retired from the RPD in June of 1999. Survived by his wife of 43 years, Bonnie; devoted children Michael (Sarah) Ruvio, Russell (Stacy) Ruvio, Robert (Cheryl) Kearney and Susie (Greg) Eason; grandchildren, Salvatore Ruvio, Samantha Ruvio, Nicholas Ruvio, Aidan Kearney and Gillian Kearney; sister Nellie (Peter) Fiorica and many nieces and nephews along with many, many close friends throughout the city of Rochester. Sal was preceded in death by his parents, Rosario and Nancy and his sisters Lucy Staffieri and Carolyn Testa. So well known throughout Rochester, there was not an establishment that Sal could venture into without being immediately recognized and welcomed. A gifted natural athlete, Sal was idealized for his athletic prowess on both the softball and football field. Sal was inducted into both the Rochester Slow Pitch Softball Hall of Fame (2006) as well as the Rochester Recreation Hall of Fame (2008). More than anything though, Sal was known for “being Sal”. Sal’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he impacted. Sal will always be loved, never forgotten and forever missed. Friends may call Monday, (March 22nd) 3:00-7:00 PM at Vay-Schleich & Meeson, 1075 Long Pond Rd, Rochester, NY 14626. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (March 23rd) 9:30 AM at St. Pius Tenth Church, 3010 Chili Avenue Rochester, New York 14624. Entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Sal’s memory to the Rochester Police Locust Club Scholarship Fund. You may contribute via phone @ 585 254-5410 or by mail to the following; Rochester Police Locust Club Scholarship Fund, C/o Rochester Police Locust Club, 1425 Lexington Ave. Rochester, NY 14606.
The Association of Rochester Police and Area Law Enforcement Retirees (ARPALER) sends condolences and prayers to the family of Detective Ruvio, and we salute him for his service to his country and community. Rest in peace Brother.
To Bonnie and family, I offer my condolences and feel a personal loss with Sal’s passing. When I was deployed to Maple Section as the Captain I was advised by Major McGurn that Sal was the coordinator but I could have anyone I wanted in that very important position but the Major suggested that I keep Sal, who I did not know at the time. I took the Major’s advice and I was and am so glad that I did. Sal was welcoming to me, kept me informed, did his job with great competence and humor. Sal and I got very close and I was able to confide in him with many issues and I trusted and valued his advice. One day Sal and Vito took me to Roncone’s restaurant for my first dining experience there. I was wearing my crisp white uniform shirt and was preparing to eat real Italian food. Sal whispered something to the server who promptly returned to our table with a bib for me. We all laughed but it worked. This was typical of several lunches that we did together. Wherever we went, Sal was greeted by numerous people. I will always think fondly of Sal and how much he helped me in my career.
Sal, I will never forget you, because you encouraged me to join the police dept, when I was the secretary at Maple Section. Love & Peace. Millie
There are no words that I can add to the life and legacy of Sal Ruvio. I am so very grateful that GOD allowed me to work with Sal on many many occasions, and share in just a portion of his life. Thank you to the Ruvio Family for sharing Sal with the men and women of the Rochester Police Department, the Community at large, and particularly those that Sal touched while investigating them. Just being in Sal’s presence one would learn something. Thanks Sal for all the teachable moments you gave to me, not just in police work, but in life it’s self! GOD Bless you Brother!
Dear Sal, Will always be fondly recalling the times we shared over our RPD careers. Truly grateful and blessed for your deep sense of tradition , caring and dedication to duty and being a mentor to me during my "coordinator days" in Highland section! Rest in Peace Sal. My sincere & heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with you Bonnie and all your family. God Bless always.
Rest In Peace Sal Lots of memories
To the Ruvio Family…. Please accept my sincere condolences and prayers for Sal at his passing. The officers at Maple Section who learned so much from him still talk about the influence that he had on our careers. It was an honor to have been taught by him how to do the job well. May his kind soul rest in peace, and may you be consoled by the promise of the Resurrection. Ed Giblin RPD Ret.
Condolences to the Ruvio Family. Sal was a great cop and a true gentlemen. Enjoyed working with him in Maple Section. Sad to hear of his passing. Rest in peace. Bruce Philpott RPD (ret.)
Sal was a great cop and a great guy. I have many fond memories of him from the job and various police functions. A very soft spoken and wise man. Condolences to family and friends during this difficult time. RIP Sal.
To The Ruvio Family, Your family is in our thoughts and prayers at the passing of your Husband, Father and Grandfather. Sal was a special guy who I really got to know while working in SIS with him. Sal was a knowledgeable Investigator who was always willing to assist in any way. We had many laughs and thoughtful discussions throughout the years creating many fond memories. Rest In Peace Sal.
Sonny, My big brother I will miss you so much. You have always been a part of my life. I love you with all my whole heart and will miss you with every passing day. Now you are with Mommy, Daddy, Carolyn, Babe, Hank and most of all my precious daughter Loreen. Please give everyone my love and kisses. My heart is broken!!! With all my love until we are together again. I Love You, Nellie
There are cops, good cops and then there are legends. Sal Ruvio was one of the finest men to ever wear the badge of a Rochester Police Officer. I first had the pleasure of working with Sal in what was then CTP-C in the early seventies. We were based out of the old academy on Scottsville Rd. I was assigned plainclothes duty to work along with Sal. I learned more about police work and treating people with respect from my time with him. Everyone one who met Sal, from the businessman, 19th ward residents to the person just placed in handcuffs liked Sal because he treated everyone with dignity. Many years later Sal and I were both hostage negotiators with the RPD Hostage Negotiation team. One day we were summoned to Garson Ave. where uniformed police officers had chased a vehicle from an armed bank robbery. The suspects had fled their car and ran into a residence. The SWAT team, high command and news media all came to the scene. Sal, I and Jim O’Brien tried for several hours to make contact with the suspects to no avail. Finally someone came up with a phone number for the house. Sal made the phone call which was answered by a female. All the suspects from the robbery were male. I listened as Sal told the woman that the house was surrounded by armed SWAT team members. He then ordered the woman to come out to the front porch with her hands high in the air. I relayed the information to the SWAT team. We waited for an extended period of time and no one came out. Sal re-dialed the number which kept ringing and ringing. Sal then realized that he had called the wrong number. Somewhere in the City of Rochester a woman was on her front porch with hands up waiting for the police to come. We had hearty laughs over that one for many years. My sincere sympathy to Bonnie and family for your loss of a great husband, father, friend and a man I admired greatly.
Sal, it was an honor to have crossed life’s path with you. You were always a consummate professional and a true gentleman. God bless you and rest and peace. To the Rubio family I offer my condolences and prayers. God bless.
Rest in peace, Sal. Thank you for all you did for the people of Rochester.
Rest In Peace doctor. You will have the almighty in your back pocket. This is why he took you, he only takes the best. We love you, Donna and Dane Brown.
Our sympathies to Bonnie and the Ruvio family. It was a pleasure to have met Sal while he and Bonnie were here visiting Susie in Florida. My mom and I enjoyed hearing the great stories about your police career, life, and family. Hugs to you Bonnie.
To the Ruvio Family, Sal was a mentor to me and to many others, and did not hesitate to help you when he was called to answer a question from a coordinators view. He was one of the best softball players I’ve played with. Sal was the most thorough, tenacious, Investigator for the RPD. I can’t thank Sal enough for helping me throughout my career with RPD, and even seeing him after retirement, Sal was just Sal. Sale is looking down to all of us and keeping an eye out on all of us. God Bless you Sal, and condolences to the Ruvio Family for your lose and strength to you during this challenging time.
It was the center of the earth. It was where all things started. It was where everyone came from and everyone went to. Why would you go anywhere else? All my friends were there. All of my family gathered there. We went to school there. We went to church there, we got married there and then moved out of the house we grew up in, with our parents, and looked for an apartment there. Where was this magical place? You know the answer. It’s the same thing you say when you describe that guy you just ran into at Wegmans and your grandson or granddaughter says to you, “Who was that guy? Oh him. I know him from the neighborhood.” Once you are referred to as “a guy from the neighborhood”, it’s instant credibility. It’s a badge of honor. It’s something special. Bill Danno, Sal and I, all lived in the neighborhood, on the same street. Played sports together and worked together on the department. But Sal was special. Sal Ruvio was the prince of the “neighborhood”. Bloss St., Saratoga Ave, Edgerton Park . He owned it. Rumor has it that he may have even stopped at the Edgerton Grill once or twice for a “soda”. I can mention a hundred guys from the neighborhood and on the police department who he knew, and who he influenced, and still not mention all of them. Tell me, who do you know would leave his job at the Monroe County Parks Department on a Friday night, rent a tux, fly to New York City, go to Jilly Rizzo’s Bar and drink with Frank Sinatra? Sal did. Sal was “Sinatra in Tux”, but he never left the neighborhood. God bless you my friend and I’m sure that you will make some changes in heaven. Like that wine stuff, it won’t be the beverage of choice for much longer now that you are there. Please have one for me and for the rest of the guys from ‘the neighborhood’. I’ll do the same, Love ya–Ronnie
To the Ruvio Family I used to train my RPD K-9 dog behind building 6 at Jefferson High, and I remember Sal was usually playing tennis there. He was a man of many talents, and I always enjoyed his company on the job. I remember he was the guy that started the kissing on the cheek when he met with friends and I know he was somehow responsible for the gesture going nationwide. He was a ninth ward guy that was respected all over the county. I did not expect Sal to pass while I was out of town and I am so glad we held a special luncheon to honor him at the Police Locust Club before I left. It was a great idea and many of Sal’s friends jumped on it. REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER – YOU EARNED YOUR KEEP.
So hard to describe Sal. He was a legend in the Rochester Police Department and a friend to all. He was one of my dearest friends and I learned so much from him. There will never be another "Sal" and I will miss him so much
I consider myself very fortunate to have known Sal. As a member of the NYSP, I worked in the city for 20 years. Always and I mean always, Sal was there for our squad. Anytime we needed assistance in the Maple Section and later SIS, he would be our go-to guy. After he retired, I would always see and talk with Sal at Antonetta’s and Arpaler meetings as there was a mutual respect between coppers which I treasure to this day.
Bonnie and family; What can I/we say at a time like this. I worked with Sal for over 8 years, he was simply "one of a kind". I loved, just loved, "teaming-up with Sal on Investigations when he thought that it would be advantageous to do so. I loved our volleyball days as "Maple Rangers" though I knew his game was baseball, where he became "Doc" Ruvio, and as fond as I was of Sal, my wife Bonnie. was as fond; well, we were both in awe of the man, both a great Cop and family man. I don’t know how de did it, smile on his face day, a natural "negotiator" even before it became official. Vito, Sal, Tommy, Gus and Steve made my life as 2nd Pltn. Lieutenant at Maple Section so pleasant. Again, we, Bonnie and I and our daughters all mourn your loss!
Nellie, I am so saddened by Sonny’s passing. We had a lot of conversations when I was helping Carolyn. I have been with your family for 40 some years, going to your mom’s. Alot of wonderful memories and love. I wish I could be there, but my prayers and love are there for Bonnie’s family and yours.
Uncle Salvatore, you have always held a special place in my heart as far back as I can remember. You were a huge part of our lives growing up on Bloss Street and through our years into adulthood – too many fond memories to mention. I’m pretty sure you know how much I love and respect you! You are the true meaning of a gentleman who loved with all his heart. I’m going to miss you more than you can ever imagine! Love always! “Your Baby” (Lisa)
Doc I’ll never forget the day you told me that Dane, Billy and Norm were going to take you deer hunting for your first time. You asked me what I thought of the idea that you bring a folding chaise lounge and a blanket with you so that you could set it up on the side of a hill for elevation and the blanket would keep you warm and you could rest while hunting. I told you that that was a great idea, but, to make sure that you got plenty of rest during the day because that night at deer camp would probably be a very long one for you. Doc you were always a great mentor to me and I will never forget what you taught me. Ed
My deepest condolences to the Ruvio and Fiorica families. Sal was a true gentleman. May he rest in God’s grace. Sincerely.. Tocky
rest in peace Sal ( HUCH ) you were a class guy and a tremendous athlete great competitor I’n high school
To this man, ”the legend”, I cannot put into words the love I have for this man. He has been my inspiration since the early sixties. He was family to my three children, took care of them as he would his own. He and I did many things together, not once did I not enjoy being with him. His fantastic outlook on life, people, and friends will never be forgotten. I just wish I could have said good bye to you. You were the big brother I never had. Until we meet again, which will happen, I love you.
Sal my “God Father” ! Words cannot express how grateful I am to have you as my Godfather! I can speak for my mother, Beverly and all the Riola clan that you were “simply the Best”! Always there for us for whatever we might need. I personally looked to you as a father figure as it was no secret my father was absent in that department . I was always proud to have you in my life and when I was little I would love to wear your police hat and brag to my sister that I had the better God father because her godfather was always getting into trouble in my godfather could arrest him haha Sal there are many reasons I loved you and many memories I hold dear! I will miss you every day and I will continue to try to beat Bonnie in cards. I will never forget listening to you sing Frank Sinatra knowing every song and word by heart! My heart goes out to your family as they grieve the loss Of such a wonderful man ! I will keep them in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time I love you now and forever, your goddaughter Josette
My thoughts and prayers to you and your family Love Josette
God Bless You Sal Ruvio. I met Sal when I was a little girl. He was a dear friend and partner with my father Steve Turrie. I remember chasing tennis balls for them at Edgerton Park and then going to Al’s Stand for a hot dog afterwards. Great Memories. Thoughts of Peace and Prayers for the family. Kathie Turrie
Sal will be greatly missed. He was a good friend and a loyal patron at Antonetta’s Restaurant.So sorry for your loss.
Sal was a bright and shining star to the entire community of Rochester, New York. Folks will read about him in the paper, and in this guest book, but unless he actually touched your heart, you will never know just what a wonderful man he was. A legend for sure , but more then that he was an unbelievable compassionate Man. A man with a heart made of solid gold, and a smile that would make your day. A giant on the Westside, but truly loved by almost everyone he came in contact with. He was mentor to young police officers and old alike. He took an interest in a troubled, immature kid from the Eastside, and gave guidance and a calm peace, that changed my life. For that, and for much more I can never forget him. Just to say he was my friend, will never be enough. I am truly sorry that I live away from Rochester, and I am not able to pay my proper respects to Salvatore "Sonny" Ruvio . Bonnie and Family please know that you have my deepest sympathy in this sad time. I love you Sal. Jimmy Verna
I have so many wonderful memories at the Ruvio pool house. Sal was a fantastic person, he loved with all his heart, he would be there anytime without questions for you. I am blessed to have known him for all these years. I will forever miss him. Bonnie and family my condolence.
Dear Bonnie and family, Sal was "daddy sal" for both my children! He was a wonderful friend and an inspiration to many of us! I fondly remeber days at the pool, having dinners with you , it was amazing- to be treated like family by all of you! Sal will be sorely missed! Are you living in Rochester? Please email me when you have a moment! Love to all!
Sal leaves a beautiful legacy as one of the good cops. Fair, soft spoken, with an easy smile. My husband, Isaac and I were both on the job with him. And, we both grew to love him…which was easy to do. Sending sincere condolences from Florida to the family. We will miss him dearly as assuredly many will. God rest his beautiful soul.
My heart goes out to the Ruvio family. Sal was a great guy and mentor. He always encouraged me, especially when I became an Investigator and always asked how I was doing. He also pushed me to continue my military career, since we were both Army! I will always miss his smile, laugh and advice. God bless you Sal, you are loved.
My sincere condolences to the Ruvio family. I have many fond memories growing up, Sal and my father were best friends.Whether it was at a softball game playing for the locust club or just hanging out. I have a great picture on my desk of Sal and my father smiling from ear to ear, together at the 1000 Islands from one of their many fishing trips.RIP Sal…
I can’t believe you were gone my friend. All that is left are the great memories we shared over the years. It was great keeping company with you. I will always hold you close in my heart. Miss you buddy.
Mr. Dewey, Thank you so much for that story. My father was very fond of you as well. He loved being a detective but even more so loved the people he worked with as well as the community he served. ~Russ
It warms my heart that my father had such a positive impact on your career, Mildred 🙂 ~Russ.
I could not have said it better myself, sir. My father loved teaching police tactics and more than that has helped many, especially me, with LIFE LESSONS. Thank you for those kind words. ~Russ.
Thank you so much for those kind words, Mr. Boccacino. My father certainly loved what he did. ~Russ.
That was very kind of you, Mr. Giblin. I can’t agree more regarding my father’s influence. Not only with his peers on the force, but my siblings as well as many of my close friends were also influenced by him and the way he carried himself as a man. ~Russ.
Thank you, Mr. Larson…he was the greatest. ~Russ.
Thank you, Mr. Meehan. My dad’s legacy lives on through people he shared those memories with, much like yourself. God bless! ~Russ.
Thank you so much, Roiann. As my Aunt Nellie put it, we have solace knowing he is now with his sisters, parents and of course his beautiful niece. ~Russ.