Ruben Contreras went home to be with the Lord on January 2, 2019, in Houston, TX at the age of 84 years old. He was a loving man, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, friend, and mentor. Ruben was born in Riviera, TX the youngest of 10 children to Donaciano and Refugia Contreras. He grew up in Corpus Christi, TX going to school and working on Chapman Ranch alongside his father. He graduated from W.B. Ray High School in 1953. He then made his way to Detroit, MI in search of work. There he met the love of his life, his best friend and wife, Irene Contreras. He worked as a taxi driver and later as a truck driver for Kozloff Fish Company. They started their little family and were blessed with two children, Rosalinda and Rosendo. In 1958, he returned to Corpus Christi working as a mechanic, making their life on Chapman Ranch, a place he knew and loved all too well. There they were blessed with two more children, Rachael and Benedict. They lived a wonderful life and made beautiful memories. In 1966, he moved his family to Houston, TX where he was offered a job opportunity as a machinist with Howard Wilson Machine Shop. Deciding to settle in Houston, they were blessed with their last child, Francisco. He remained at this job until retiring as a machinist and truck driver at Archie Lawrence Machine Shop. As a father, Ruben provided a foundation of love and nurturing throughout his family’s lives. His passions included spending time with his wife and family, something that was so dear to him. A perfectly bloomed hibiscus always put a smile on his face. A favorite pastime was taking care of his beloved garden. Any given opportunity to cast a fishing line would not be passed nor would the chance to load a gun for hunting. He was always ready to catch the ballgame on television, and it was always a good day when the Cowboys won. He was such a humble man with a heart of gold. He knew no stranger, and was loved by all. His kind heart and generous spirit will never be forgotten. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Irene Contreras and five children; Rosalinda Contreras Alvarado (Jimmy), Rosendo Contreras, Rachael Contreras, Benedict Contreras (Eva), and Francisco Contreras. He is also survived by his brother Juan Contreras (Corina); along with numerous grandchildren, great grand children, nieces and nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Raymundo, Noe, Jesus, Adan, Daniel, Fidencio, Baldermar, and sister, Maria Contreras Alvarado. A memorial service and celebration of Ruben’s life will be held at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 S. Kirkwood, Stafford, TX 77477 on January 19, 2019. Rosary will commence at 10:00am service to follow at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The American Cancer Society of Houston 2500 Fondren Rd #100, Houston, TX 77063 https://www.cancer.org/
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