Ruben Galvan Rodriguez

Ruben Galvan Rodriguez, a beacon of musical talent and a treasured member of the San Antonio community, passed away on August 10, 2024, at his birthplace and lifelong home in San Antonio, Texas. Born on February 17, 1976, Ruben's life was a symphony of love, learning, and laughter, characterized by his wisdom, humor, and intelligence. He faced End-Stage-Renal Disease with remarkable courage and fortitude.

Ruben's journey began as a beloved son to his mother, Rachel Galvan Rodriguez. His life was further enriched by the love and companionship of his devoted wife, Stephanie Rodriguez, and their cherished daughter, Mira Delenn Rodriguez. Ruben's spirit and legacy continue through his family, including his sister, Rosemary Monsalvo, and her husband, Michael, along with their children, Salvador, Anthony, Ryan, and Gabriela. His sister, Rebecca Basaldua, her husband Tony, and their children, BriAnna and John Anthony, also survive him. His extended family, through loving bonds, included in-laws Carlos and Mary Alice Sandoval, Juan Rodriguez with Debra Walker, and Michael with Joann Sandoval and their children, Jazel, Avian, and Ezra, as well as Cosme and Yolanda Cano and their son, Cosme Jr.

Ruben's passion for music was both a personal joy and a professional calling. A gifted self-taught musician conversant with many instruments and genres, he shared stages with ensembles such as The Al Sturchio Big Band, The Luis Portillo Orchestra, Power House Big Band, Mario Flores and Puro Estillo, Equinox, Noche Del Rio, and Los Gatos Negros. He also enriched the lives of others by providing music lessons through Alamo Music. His dedication to music education led him to pursue and earn a degree in Music Education from the University of San Antonio. As an educator, he initially served as the Assistant Mariachi Instructor at McAuliffe Middle School for two years and later as the cherished Mariachi Director at Resnik Middle School for seven years.

Beyond the music room, Ruben's interests were as diverse as his musical talents. He was an avid reader, with a passion for great books spanning the realms of religion, science fiction, and history. His love for family gatherings and his great appreciation for food brought warmth and joy to those special moments shared with family and friends. The over 30-year fellowship of his cherished lifelong friends Salvador Elizondo, Robert Gamez, Jeremy McBride, Jason Valdez, Jonas Garcia, Terence Bush, and Ricky Gutierrez brought endless laughter and companionship throughout his journey.

In the tapestry of Ruben's life, one could find the embodiment of Albert Einstein's words, "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." Ruben lived by this adage, always finding ways to balance the demands of his career, passions, and family life with grace and a smile.

As we commemorate Ruben's life, let us hold dear the melodies he has left behind—the sounds of his music, his infectious laughter, his thoughtful words, and the imprints of his actions upon our hearts. Ruben did not merely exist; he lived fully, loved deeply, and left a legacy of beauty in sound and spirit. His life was a testament to the enduring power of dedication, love, and the pursuit of one's passions in the face of life's adversities.

Ruben's memory will be carried forward in the hearts of those he touched with his wisdom, music, and charm. May the harmony of his essence resonate within us as we remember a man whose life was a celebration of the human spirit in its most melodious form.

Ruben was very passionate about his students and music. In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Stephanie Rodriguez is asking you to consider donating to Ruben's beloved school and program in his honor - Resnik Mariachi SAF. All donations will go directly into the Resnik Mariachi Program for current and future students!

The family will receive friends from 11:00 to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Porter Loring Mortuary.

FUNERAL SERVICESATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 202412:00 P.M.PORTER LORING MORTUARY WEST1710 W. LOOP 1604 N. SAN ANTONIO, TX. 78251(LOCATED NEAR SEA WORLD)

Reception to follow at Porter Loring Mortuary West.