(Rosemarie Ann Ruffo Marks)

Rosemarie Ann (Ruffo) Marks, 71 of Almond, NY, passed away at home, very peacefully, on March 28th, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

For nearly three decades, she met her illness with valiant strength, grace, and a resilience that inspired all who knew her. She was a walking miracle! Even in the face of hardship, her smile never faded, her spirit remained radiant and powerful, she carried herself with a natural elegance, effortlessly refined, with a warmth and comfort that drew others in.

Rose was an honor student throughout high school, and built up a well-rounded resume, all while being a caretaker for her parents. She continued her education in business and finances at Powelson Business Institute. Later she went back to school at Medaille College, while raising a family and working full time.

She met Fred, the love of her life, while working at NYSEG in Binghamton. Together they built a life centered on dedication, love and family, as well as antique boats and boating (we cannot leave that fun adventure out), while raising their children; Frederic, Melissa and Domenica.

Nothing meant more to Rose than her children and grandchildren. She loved them fiercely and without condition, hence her bold honesty when needed. She adored the beauty and wonder of God's creation around her, from flowers to farm creatures. Her numerous friends were very special to her. Gatherings with family and friends were her happiest moments-when the house was full, stories were being told, laughter filled the rooms, and food covered the table in true Rose fashion. Those gatherings were a reflection of her heart: welcoming, generous, and full of love.

Though she is no longer here with us, she remains forever cherished as her light endures-in every fond memory, every life she influenced, and in every person that was fortunate enough to sit at her table or be held in her heart.

She is survived by Domenica Burns (daughter, Hornell, NY) and husband Jonathan D Burns, Frederic R Marks Jr (step-son, Hamburg, NY) and his wife Maureen J Marks, Melissa T Merlino (step-daughter, Venice, FL), Deborah Fike (sister, Concord, NC), Roger & Smoke Marks (brother and sister-in-law, Marion, NY), Constance Marks (sister-in-law, FL), Grandchildren; Abby Rose Marks (Buffalo, NY), Kira Lee Emmerick (Venice, FL), Micah S Burns (Hornell, NY), Karis I Burns (Hornell, NY). Nieces and Nephews; Justin & his wife Meredith Marks (NY, NY), Lucas and his wife Sandy Marks (Randolph, NJ), Trenton Shady (nephew Jimmy's son, NC).

Predeceased by, the love of her life Frederic R Marks, parents Lillian Mary Cioci and Anthony James Ruffo (Endicott, NY), Mother and Father-in-law, Francis Richard & Janice Rothery Marks (Binghamton, NY), Sylvia Cioci Logan (aunt, Endicott, NY), James Shady (nephew, NC).

Calling Hours will be held at Bender Brown and Powers Funeral Home in Hornell, NY April 8th, 2026 1-5pm, funeral service at 5pm, and Cemetery graveside comital service April 9th, 2026 1pm at Vestal Hills Cemetery, Vestal NY. A celebration of life for Rose will be announced at a later date.

To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH (The service will be available to livestream on the Funeral Homes Facebook page)

She will be remembered for her strength, and the joy she brought to those around her. We will miss her dearly but she will continue on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.