Samuel Villarreal Ruiz

Ruiz, Samuel Villarreal, a 51 year resident of Torrance, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at his Torrance residence surrounded by his family. Born on October 16, 1937 in Monterey, Mexico, Sam was 70 when he passed away. He was a unique individual who had never met a stranger; he was friends to all. Sam began to express his talent at the age of 9 when he started to excel in trade school, this lead him to become a very talented carpenter. He loved to work with wood. Sam served in the U.S. Army during 1957. Upon return from the military Samuel opened his own furniture refinishing shop in Hollywood, thereafter he became a plant manager for a distinguished furniture company which he became Vice-President of. Sam also loved to take road trips with his family to numerous places throughout the United States. Another passion of his life was his garden. He gave vegetables to all his friends and family with joy. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lydia; daughter, Elsa Journey of Torrance; son, Samuel Jr (Laura) Ruiz of Orange County; daughter, Millie Ruiz of Torrance; and 3 Grandchildren: Lexi Journey, Scott Journey, and Julian Ruiz. Samuel's sister Lydia Ramirez and brother Abel Ruiz. Also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Isabel and Paula Ruiz. Funeral services will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Friday August 29, 2008 at Rice Mortuary, 5310 Torrance Blvd, Torrance CA 90503 (310) 792-7599. Reception to be held afterwards in the onsite reception room.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718; via phone 1-800-ACS-2345, or on the internet: www.cancer.org.