Albert J. Ruffo (July 1, 1908 - February 10, 2003) was an American politician, lawyer, and football coach.

Ruffo was born in Tacoma, Washington. In 1927 he moved to San Jose, California to attend nearby Santa Clara University, where he played football, and graduated with degrees in political science, electrical engineering, and literature. In 1936 he graduated from the University's law school.

He served eight years on the San Jose city council (1944 – 1952), including two years as mayor. During his time on the council, city manager A.P. Hamann was hired and the rapid growth of San Jose began. After leaving public office, Ruffo worked as an attorney, specializing in land development.

Ruffo was one of the founders of the San Francisco 49ers, handling the legal issues involved in setting up the team, as well as being an assistant coach for its first two years of operation. He later became a part owner of the team until it was sold to Eddie DeBartolo, Jr..

A 1979 San Jose State University study ranked Ruffo as one of the 10 most powerful people in San Jose. In 1997, he was inducted into the Santa Clara County Sports Hall of Fame.

External links

• San Jose Mercury News obituary (http://www.siliconvalley.com/mld/siliconvalley/5155027.htm)