February 26, 1928–December 3, 2024
Rufus Black Fink, a devoted servant of the Lord, a proud veteran, and a man of unwavering kindness and integrity, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2024. Born the 7th child to Lucie Mae Black and Mathias Boger Fink on February 26, 1928, in Washington D.C., Rufus lived a life rich in service, love, and faith.
Even as a boy, Rufus exhibited a natural charisma and purpose. While working as a paperboy for the Washington Post, he and three fellow paperboys performed a radio skit on WINX to promote the sale of War Stamps—his first step toward a life dedicated to service. His passion for his country and faith intertwined early, paving the way for a remarkable career and life.
Rufus initially enlisted in the United States Navy in 1948, starting two years of service that kindled a lifelong connection to the military. After his tour, he attended American University and became a Methodist minister. Yet his heart was drawn back to his Navy roots. Leaving his first post with the Methodist Church in Virginia, he reenlisted—this time as a Navy Chaplain—embracing the opportunity to offer spiritual guidance to service members worldwide.
During his 30-year military career, Rufus served with honor and distinction, retiring as a Lieutenant Commander. He was a chaplain to soldiers in some of the most pivotal moments of modern history, including World War II and Vietnam. Throughout his career, he was recognized with numerous commendations, including the Combat Action Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal with three stars, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation. Among his many duty stations were Port Hueneme, CA, Corpus Christi, TX, and St. Albans, NY, each of which became an extension of his ministry and dedication.
Upon retiring from the Navy in 1978, Rufus approached life with the same passion and curiosity that defined his earlier years. Whether wrangling gophers, embarking on missionary work in Siberia, or performing at Carnegie Hall with the Gold Coast Concert Chorus, Rufus cherished every chapter of his life. His adventurous spirit took him and his beloved wife, Marilyn, on unforgettable travels around the world. Together, they built not just a life, but a legacy rooted in love, faith, and joy.
Home brought him happiness in simpler forms. He carried on the DIY spirit instilled in him by his father, tackling projects with enthusiasm and Marilyn’s good-natured tolerance. At his heart, Rufus was a man of integrity, quietly shaping those around him through his honesty, compassion, and devotion.
He leaves behind a family who adored him and will forever keep his memory close. He is survived by his sister Mary Metzler, daughters Sharon Ruth and Jennifer Marie, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His beloved nieces and nephews were a core part of his being. He also cherished Marilyn’s children from a previous marriage, as well as their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he embraced as his own. Rufus preceded his beautiful wife Marilyn, the love of his life in death and she followed shortly after.
To those who knew him, Rufus was a gentle soul whose life revolved around faith, family, and service to others. His legacy is one of profound kindness, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the values he held dear.
The family invites all who wish to honor Rufus’s memory to reflect on his passions—faith, service, and love of family. Services will be held on March 6th, 2025 with a graveside service at 10am at Ivy Lawn followed by a memorial service at 11:30am at Higher Vision Church, 346 N. Kimball Rd., Ventura, California, 93004, where friends and family will gather to celebrate a life well-lived and a soul at peace.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Gold Coast Concert Chorus, 1746F South Victoria, PMB 217, Ventura, CA 93003 or their website: https://www.goldcoastchorus.org/support-gccc