ELOY - Fernando B. "Pilin" Ruiz, 70, of Eloy died on Oct. 26, 2015, at home, surrounded by his family. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday at St. Helen of the Cross Catholic Church, with rosary recited at 10:30. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Eloy Memorial Park. Mr. Ruiz was born on May 29, 1945, in Mesa and was a son of Carmen and Jesus Ruiz Sr. He was a hardworking underground miner for more than 40 years and was commended by former Gov. Bruce Babbitt for his efforts in mine rescue while serving as a captain in 1978. He was respected and admired for his work.He loved music and enjoyed playing the accordion. He also enjoyed horseback riding, fishing, handyman work and spending time with his family.Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Mary; two daughters, Barbara Cervantes and Christina Cortez of Casa Grande; a son, Fernando Ruiz Jr. of Eloy; three sisters, Isabel Rivas and Eleanor Vanderslice of Casa Grande and Alicia Quintero of Eloy; six brothers, Jesus and Leon Ruiz of Eloy, Jose Ruiz and David Montijo of Casa Grande; Juan Ruiz of Tucson and Alfredo Ruiz of California; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ralph B. Montijo.J. Warren Funeral Services, Valley Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
