Orlene Marie Ruiz

Born on November 29, 1930 in Lincoln, CA, Orlene Marie Ruiz passed away September 27, 2026 at the age of 95. Known to her family as “Mugs,” her childhood nickname, Orlene is survived by her children, Rick (Candice) Ruiz, Pete (Bess) Ruiz, and Cindy (Brian) Herrgord; her grandchildren, Nicole (Josh) Clinton and Shannon (Bobby) Burns; her great-grandchildren, Maci (Shaun) Burton, Kyle Clinton, Nicolas, Gabriel, and Mia Burns; and her great-great-granddaughter, Norah Burton.

Orlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard; her parents, Elva Amorfini and Glen Walters; and her grandson, Mathew Ruiz.

Orlene was a graduate of Lincoln schools. In 1951, she married her childhood sweetheart, Richard, while he was serving in the military. After his service, they returned to Lincoln, where they began their life together and raised their family.

Orlene’s greatest passion was caring for her home and family. She was actively involved in all of her children’s activities, including Little League, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and cheerleading. Orlene was also a talented seamstress who took great pride in keeping her family looking their best and up to date with the latest fashions of the 1960s and 1970s. She even made clothes for Barbie, sharing her creativity and love of sewing with her family. She loved day trips to her favorite lake, Donner and vacationing on Kings Beach in Lake Tahoe. Among the many memories of Mom, one that brings a smile is of her and her mom enjoying Salty Dogs on the beach. It's a funny memory that captured their spirit and the special bond she had with her mother. She was an amazing cook and also loved to bake. Her cooking and baking brought the family together and created countless memories.

Orlene worked as a school librarian, then secretary for 20 years at Glen Edwards in Lincoln. In retirement she spent her time reading, swimming, camping, and going on adventures with her partner in crime, Onalee Spoor. Orlene loved to shop and especially had a weakness for shoes and jewelry!

She cherished every moment spent with her family, but her grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart. The love she shared with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will remain a beautiful part of their lives.

Orlene will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her love, laughter and kindness will live on in their hearts for generations to come.