Luis Gustavo Ruiz Sr.

Entered This Life (07/24/1954) Yabucoa, Puerto Rico

Entered Eternal Life (04/26/2026) Hemet, California

Luis G. Ruiz Sr., a gifted composer, legendary bandleader, beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend passed away suddenly, leaving behind a legacy that resonates through every note of the music he loved. To the world, Louie was a maestro; to his family, he was their entire world—a fun-loving, spirited soul who lived every moment of his life in perfect tune.

Louie dedicated his life to the art of salsa music. He was a prolific creator who spent his days and nights composing intricate arrangements for the piano, bass, trumpet, trombone, guitar, and congas. As the leader of his renowned 12 to 15 piece orchestra, Louie was in his element when the room was alive with energy, rhythm, and dance. While he mastered many instruments, the piano was his heart and soul. The melodies he played were the soundtrack to his family's lives, a gift of harmony and passion that will be cherished forever.

His memory will be kept alive by the beautiful family he leaves behind:

His children: Luis G. Ruiz Jr. (“Chino”) and Lumilda.

His grandchildren: Donovan R. Cendejas and Danica R. Cendejas.

His siblings: Four brothers Elvin, Monico, Richie, and Alex and five sisters Maria, Marissa, Mariam, Lillian, and Aurora.

His extended family: His ex-wife and mother of his children, Mildred Otero, along with a vast ensemble of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who were like family.

Louie has been called to join the heavenly orchestra. He is preceded in death by his father, Monico “Moncho” Ruiz; his brothers, Eddie and Jimmie Ruiz, and his mother Aurora Santana Ruiz who will be waiting at the gates for him with open arms welcoming him home again.

Though his physical presence is gone, his music remains. Louie always found a way to communicate through song, and his family asks that whenever you hear the bright horns and rhythmic keys of salsa music, you remember him. It is his way of letting us all know he is still here, watching over us and keeping the rhythm alive. Whenever the music plays, Louie lives on.