Domenico “Dom” Rufino

Domenico “Dom” Rufino, of Bayonne, New Jersey, passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 82. Born in Bayonne on May 16, 1944, he was the beloved son of the late Vincent Rufino and the late Carmela (DePaza) Rufino.

Dom was a proud United States Army veteran who honorably served his country for two years. Following his military service, he dedicated 25 years to serving his community as a Corrections Officer. During his career, he also served as a firearm instructor and was a member of the SERT team. After retiring from corrections, Dom continued working part-time as a security guard at GoodTimes Home Video.

He was the beloved husband of the late Agnes Theresa (Calamito) Rufino. He was the devoted father of his only daughter, Victoria Rose Pacilio, and her husband, Neil Salvatore Pacilio III, and the cherished grandfather of Neil Salvatore Pacilio IV. He was predeceased by his brother, Lewis Rufino.

Dom’s greatest pride was his family, and he treasured the many years spent guiding, supporting, and making memories with his daughter and grandson. Victoria will always remember her father for the lessons he taught her from childhood—reading and learning the Bible, standing up for what was right, being a law-abiding citizen, and having the “street smarts” to navigate life.

He was always there to cheer her on, proudly serving as her baseball coach and attending her dance recitals and performances with the Little Theater. He always made time to play, talk, and laugh with her.

Among their most treasured memories was the special pretend language Dom and his daughter shared throughout her childhood—a little language all their own that brought them endless laughter and remains a cherished reminder of the special bond they shared.

Dom will be remembered for his dedication to his country and community, his devotion to his family, his sense of humor, and the countless lessons and memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A note from his daughter, Victoria: “To Dad, thank you for reading and teaching me the Bible, always taking the time to teach me as a little girl to stand up for what is right and be a law-abiding citizen. You taught me street smarts, and you always had time to play and talk to me growing up. Thank you so much for being my baseball coach, coming to every dance recital and my performances at Little Theater. Most of all, I will always remember and cherish our pretend language we had, always laughing. Love you, Dad.”

A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 24, at 12:00 noon at Forest Green Cemetery, Morganville, New Jersey. All are welcome to attend. There will be no services at the funeral home.