Gilbert Ruiz

Gilbert Ruiz was born February 6 to Jose and Anna Ruiz . He attended Globe High School but opted for enlisting in the Army serving a term in Germany before graduating.

Once he completed his term, he came home to Arizona where he met Lucy Romero from Superior. Gilbert and Lucy eloped to Florence, Arizona on November 1, 1949. They welcomed their first child, Ana (Tinky) in December, 1950 and began building from there with a son, Gilbert (Owen) and Debra. When Gilbert and Lucy were expecting another child, Gilbert was so hoping for a boy so that Owen would have a brother. Instead, he was welcomed by twin girls, Laurie and Lorraine - such a surprise to all!

Dad did many things in his life. He was an auto mechanic by trade, and bull rider in his younger days. Later in life he was a weekend cowboy. He loved to hunt and fish and being around family and friends. Dad always loved to try his hand at new things, including making wine, beer, and his delicious jerky. He even tried his hand at canning his home grown chilis and learned how to speak the Apache language.

Gilbert is survived by his children Ana “Tinky” Lewis, Gilbert “Owen” Ruiz , Debra Moya, Laurie Ruiz and Lorraine (Ramon) Remos, his brother Joe Ruiz , six grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 55 years Lucy R Ruiz and his grandson David Rosalez along with his parents, three sisters and two brothers.

Dad lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed every minute of it. He will be deeply missed. As he always used to tell us “Vaya con dios”.