Ruben Ruiz

Ruben Ruiz, a cherished husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Wapato on August 7, 2024, at the age of 92. Surrounded by his loving family, his final moments were a testament to the profound bonds he cherished throughout his life. Born on June 22, 1932, in Ordway, Colorado, Ruben was the beloved son of Jose and Maria Ruiz. He moved to Wapato in 1942, where he met and married the love of his life Lorraine Hernandez. Together, they raised 8 children and built a life rich in love and devotion, raising their family in this close-knit community. He is survived by his siblings Delores Ruiz, Lena Blackburn, Ramona Valdez of Seattle, and Joe Ruiz of Prosser. Ruben leaves behind a legacy of love through his children: Renee (Jose Vega) Vasquez, John (Stella) Vasquez, Ben Vasquez, Teresa Ruiz, Christopher Martinez, all of Wapato, and Ruthann (Mark) Winder of Oregon, and the late Ruben Ruiz Jr., the late Abel Ruiz, and the late Phillip Ruiz, . As well as a remarkable legacy through his 31 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. Ruben was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Maria Ruiz, beloved and devoted wife Lorraine Ruiz, his children Ruben Ruiz Jr., Abel Ruiz, and Phillip Ruiz, and four grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Helen Hernandez, Manuel Ruiz, Louie Ruiz, Gloria Padilla, Viola Ponce, and Lupe Ruiz. Dad dedicated over 75 years to agriculture work and crew foreman, working in various fruit, vegetable, and hop fields throughout the Yakima Valley. He continued his love for farm labor until the age of 85, with his final position at Roy Farms before retiring. Though his hands were often busy with work, his heart was always at home, surrounded by his family, where he found his greatest joy. Dad took pride in bringing his children and grandchildren into the fields, teaching them the rigors of hard manual labor and instilling a work ethic that would offer valuable life lessons. Dad was not only a diligent worker but also a lively and joyful presence in the lives of his loved ones. On many weekends, you could find him and Mom dancing the night away, their faces with big smiles and a sparkle in their eyes, reflecting the deep love they shared for each other. Despite the challenges life presented, Dad and Mom always looked on the brighter side, finding peace and happiness in celebrating their children and grandchildren’s milestones at every opportunity. Our family finds great peace in knowing that Dad is now reunited with our beloved Mom in heaven, dancing with her once again. Time spent with Dad was always easy and full of excitement. He loved to dance, laugh, and have a good time, and his heart swelled with pride and happiness with each new baby born into the family. Dad was a hero to many, a loving and caring man whose warmth and zest for life made him a beacon of light for those around him. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Visitation and Rosary on Thursday from 4 pm to 7 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in Wapato at 11 am, followed by burial at Reservation Community Memorial Park. A reception will be hosted at the Vasquez home on Campbell Road. Ruben Ruiz’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His gentle spirit, unwavering work ethic, and deep love for his family will be remembered and cherished and we thank you all for being a part of it. Valley Hills Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ruben Ruiz, please visit our flower store.