Robert Ruiz

Robert Ruiz, 83, a man of profound discipline, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and country, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026. He fought an extended and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease—a challenge linked to his years of dedicated military service—with the same grit and grace he displayed throughout his life.

Born October 28, 1942, in Mission, Texas, to Elisa Castillo and Jose Luis Ruiz, Robert’s life was defined by a legacy of service and principle. A true patriot, he proudly served his country in the United States Army for more than 20 years, retiring at the rank of Sergeant First Class. A highly decorated Vietnam veteran, his military career allowed him to travel the world, serving in places from Germany to Thailand—the latter of which he often described as one of the most beautiful places he had ever been.

Throughout his distinguished service, his exceptional dedication and bravery were recognized with numerous honors, including:

• Bronze Star Medal

• Meritorious Service Medal

• Army Commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster)

• Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm

• National Defense Service Medal

• Vietnam Service Medal

• Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal

• Good Conduct Medal (6th Award)

• Army of Occupation Medal

• Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal

His commitment to supporting others did not end with his military retirement; he embarked on a second successful career in Civil Service, where he worked for 28 years as a logistics coordinator in supply operations and finance. Through decades of work in both uniforms, Robert earned the respect of colleagues and friends for his reliability, leadership, and remarkable work ethic.

Outside of work, Robert found joy in the simple pleasures of life. To those who lived nearby, he was known for his meticulous nature. He displayed the American flag proudly

every single day and took immense pride in maintaining a perfectly manicured lawn—a testament to the attention to detail he carried from his military days. He loved spending time in nature, watching rainy days roll in, and cheering on his favorite teams: the Dallas Cowboys and the San Antonio Spurs. When enjoying a quiet moment indoors, Robert was an avid reader who lived by the sentiment shared by one of his favorite authors, John Grisham: “Reading is by far the most successful pursuit of happiness.”

Above all else, Robert was a devoted family man. He was the steady anchor of the Ruiz family, treasuring time spent with those he loved and taking quiet pride in the life he helped build. His steady presence, wisdom, and humor will be remembered by all who knew him.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Petra Garza, Noemi Lopez, Irene Regaledo, Rudolfo Ruiz, Ruben Ruiz, Augustin Ruiz, and Jose Luis Ruiz Jr.; and his cherished granddaughter the light of his life, Taylor Ashley Reyes, with whom he is now reunited.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Ruiz; his daughters and their spouses, Denise and David Reyes, Kathy and Chris Martinez, and Cyndi and Xavier Franco. He also leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren, Danielle Reyes, David Javier Reyes, Elias Reyes, Ethan Reyes, Isaiah Reyes, Amanda Perez (Daniel), and Jessica Castellanos (Javier); his great-grandchildren, Taylor and Max Reyes, Aviana and Amelia Perez, and Luca and Evelyn Castellanos; his sister, Yolanda Aguallo; as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

"A soldier never truly leaves his post; he simply finds a higher vantage point to watch over those he loves."

Robert’s life was one of honor, service, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

The family will receive friends for visitation at 10:00 a.m. on March 23, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary, located at 1101 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, Texas, 78212. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Robert’s memory to organizations supporting Parkinson’s disease research and veterans.