Ruben "RJ" Bustamento Jr.

Ruben “RJ” Bustamento, Jr. of Colorado Springs was hospitalized unexpectedly on March 13, 2024, with a devastating cardiac event, and passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on March 30, 2024. RJ was born on March 25, 1959, in Shreveport, Louisiana to Ruben, Sr. and Dorothy Bustamento. RJ spent his early childhood years in Louisiana and Texas before the family moved to Colorado in 1966.

RJ grew up in Fountain, Colorado and graduated from Widefield High School in 1977. He was initiated on August 16, 1979, as a Journeyman Lineman with I.B.E.W. Local 113 and was a member for 44 years before retiring in October of 2023. He worked for several contractors over the course of his lineman career, his last being with Static Line. RJ had an exceptional work ethic and took pride in his work and mentoring apprentices and teaching them the lineman trade. He enjoyed traveling across the United States to restore power in areas affected by devastating storms.

One of his favorite places he traveled to was Saipan where he worked for several months restoring power after Typhoon Yutu caused massive destruction to the island. He developed lasting relationships with many linemen from different U.S. States and the local people in Saipan.

RJ married the love of his life and soulmate, Cindy (Welch) on June 14, 1995. Together they enjoyed spending time with good friends at Taylor Reservoir riding ATVs and fishing. He cherished time with family and had a love for Elvis Presley and the Dallas Cowboys.

RJ was a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle and friend and truly valued family and friendship. He leaves behind his beloved wife Cindy, loyal dog Ginger, cat Kiki, and his brother Danny (Tawnia) Bustamento, sisters Karen (Scott) Ledbetter and Kim (Jason) Daniluk and nieces and nephews, Jessica, Sarah, Jennifer, David, Cole, Kane and Carter, Brothers-in-Law, Gene and Ken Welch and many friends.

RJ was preceded in death by his parents Ruben, Sr., and Dorothy Bustamento

The amount of love RJ felt for his family and the amount of love his family felt for him is immeasurable, and our hearts are broken. Love you, RJ.

Memorial Service will be held at: Swan-Law Funeral Directors, 501 North Cascade, Colorado Springs, CO Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.

Celebration of Life to follow at Patty Jewett Golf Course, Banquet Room, 900 E Espanola Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 at 2:00 p.m.

(Wear your jeans to celebrate RJ)

(In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite animal rescue in RJ’s name to honor his love for animals)