Bob Rulfs passes away
A Facebook message from Rulfs Orchard was posted at about 6 p.m. today June 15, 2022
It is with the deepest sadness we tell you that Grandpa Bob Rulfs has passed.
Bob was a true legend of Rulfs Orchard. He always loved chatting with customers and thanking them for coming in. The one place he might have been the happiest was on a tractor. We all know his passion for planting sweet corn, it was his favorite crop.
Grandpa Bob’s story has always been an inspiration to us. He came to Peru, NY on March 19, 1952, from the small town of Valhalla in Westchester County. As a little boy, Bob dreamed of owning a farm but due to his allergies was told he may never be able to make this dream come true. Despite this, he attended college and graduated with a degree in Animal Husbandry with an aim of owning a small dairy farm. He purchased his first farm with four milk cows and three heifer calves, as well as 12 acres of apple trees. Our great Rulfs apple orchards began with Bob selling apples from a wagon on the front lawn of his house. 
Bob saw Peru change so much during his time here. The construction of the Northway (I-87) carving through the land in 1964 was one major event that prompted him to purchase another farm in West Peru. In the 1960s he introduced tomatoes and sweet corn to the farm, in 1983, the cider mill, and in 1987, our beloved Rulfs Bakery. In 1988, his eldest son purchased the dairy farm so more time could be devoted to the Orchard and Roadside Stand.
To say Grandpa Bob will be missed is a huge understatement. He was one-of-a-kind and completely irreplaceable. We are honored to carry his name forward and be the best we can be, serving our customers and treating our staff with kindness and a smile.
Posted: June 15th, 2022 under Adirondack Region News, Agricultural News, Business News, Faces of Peru, General News, Northern NY News, Peru News, Peru resident news/accomplishments, Peru/Regional History.