James "Chick" Henry Rufkahr passed away on June 1, 2020, at the age of 94 from complications of COVID-19 virus.
He is survived by his two daughters, Brenda Rufkahr of Weldon Spring, and Barb (Olen) Dobkins of Chesterfield; two granddaughters, Jenna (Jose') King of O'Fallon, and Alyssa Hermann of Washington, D.C.; two grandsons, Mark Williams of Moscow Mills and Jacob Dobkins of Austin, Texas; two great-granddaughters, Victoria DeMariano and Kendall Mae King; two great-grandsons, Chance Williams and Landon Keith King; many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
James grew up on a farm in Wright City during the great depression. He graduated from Wright City High School in 1943. He proudly served his country in the U. S. Army during World War II for two years. After returning from the U.S. Army, he began a career in 1947 at Ford Motor Company in Hazelwood and retired in 1978 after over 30 years of employment.
Upon retiring, he worked as a handyman and school bus driver for 17 years. He also delivered flowers and Meals on Wheels. He was very athletic and participated in Senior Olympics for several years. He enjoyed softball and volleyball, but his love was ballroom dancing with his wife.
James was a devout Catholic, very active in his church, Sts. John and James in Ferguson, where he was an usher and served on the finance committee.
"Chick" had a big heart and took pleasure in helping others. He will be fondly remembered for his friendly smile and giving nature.
He is preceded in death by his father, Benes Rufkahr, and mother, Frances Rufkahr (nee Ruhwedel); spouse, Emily Rufkahr (nee Ryker); sisters, Lena Roth and Margaret Held. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Visitation is Saturday, June 6, from 10-11:30 a.m. at Pitman Funeral Home in Wentzville, 1545 Wentzville Parkway.
Funeral service will be held June 6, 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Wright City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made payable to Alzheimer's Association, in care of Pitman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 248, Wentzville, MO 63385.
