Maria Helena Ruiz

Maria Helena Ruiz better known as just Helen died peacefully on May 4, 2024 at the age of 82 after a visit from her two children. She was born in Colorado on February 14, 1942 and then moved to California as a young girl with her family.

Helen is survived by her children, daughter Irene Ruiz, and son Trini Ruiz. Granddaughters Carmen Oaks, Lauren Oaks, and Corinne Oaks: daughter-in-law Tristan Ruiz and grandsons TJ Ruiz and Kellen Ruiz. Helen loved to watch her grandkids participate in their activities as they made her proud of their accomplishments and the adults they have become. She is also survived by her siblings, Kitten Alonzo (Jess), Kathy Aguilar (Joe), Jean Sanchez, Rudy Casias (Mae), Alfonso Casias (Grace), Raymond Casias, and Jimmy Casias.

Helen was married to her beloved husband Trini Ruiz who passed away on December 6, 1989. Trini and Helen were active members in the South Stockton community helping develop Southern Little League and were active members of St. George Parrish. Many will remember her for her endless effort as she ran the snack bar at Southern Little League for years. She worked as an OBGYN nurse for approximately 37 years. As a nurse she not only cared for her patients but developed long-lasting friendships with them, it wasn’t a job for her but a true calling. Starting when her son attended St. Mary’s High School, she helped run the snack bar at football games and was the official scorekeeper for the varsity basketball team for many years. Helen was also an active member of the Pines senior community for approximately 20 years helping with activities and welcoming new residents to the park.

Helen was a generous and caring individual who valued each relationship she developed in all areas of her life. She also loved crafts and developed an extensive craft collection of Christmas items over the years, from small hanger Christmas trees to beautiful wreaths she displayed each year. Along with her love of crafting, she had an eye for anything with an apple.

Helen left a lasting impression on so many different generations throughout her life. She left a lasting legacy as she helped shape the lives of all those she got to know.

A visitation for Maria will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at DeYoung Memorial Chapel, 601 N California St, Stockton, California 95202. A rosary will occur Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 5:00 PM, 601 N California St, Stockton, California 95202. A Mass of Christian burial will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Luke's Catholic Church, 3847 N. Sutter Street, Stockton, California. A committal will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery, 719 E. Harding Way, Stockton, California.