Joseph I. Ruiz of Phoenix, Arizona passed away on April 3, 2021 at the age of 88 surrounded by family at home. Joseph, affectionately known as Joe or Tata, was born on September 21, 1932 in Tempe, Arizona and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War as a combat engineer mapping out mine fields. He later retired after devoting 30 years as a Civil Engineer for the City of Phoenix and then began his second career as an amazing Tata.
Joe was a faithful man devoted to God and his family above all else. He was an avid storyteller, always a helping hand and had a lively sense of humor, even up to his last days. He was preceded in death by Belia, the love of his life and wife of 61 years and grandson, Joseph Moore.
Joe is survived by his 5 children, Blanca (Sakda), Rogeria (Loren), Norma (Keith), Mark (Toni), and Catherine (Cathy), 14 grandchildren, and 13 (soon to be 16) great grandchildren.
Though missed deeply and never replaced, the memories of our dear Tata will be forever remembered and cherished in our hearts.
Services will start at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Phoenix, with the rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. and interment immediately afterwards at 12:30 p.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery or Arizona.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18