Mr. Benjamin Ruiz

Benjamin “Benjie” Ruiz, age 75, passed away peacefully in his own home on February 8, 2026, in San Luis Obispo, California. He was born on August 12, 1950 in Red Hook, Brooklyn, New York, to Pedro and Isabel Ruiz. Benjie was the youngest brother of 13 siblings. In the 1970s, Benjie found his forever home on the Central Coast, a place where his heart settled and his life took root. There, he lovingly raised three children with his first wife, Donna Ruiz, pouring his whole spirit into being their father. In time, he began a new chapter filled with quiet love and tenderness, sharing a deeply meaningful marriage with his wife, Erica Ruiz. Together, they welcomed the joy of raising their daughter, Angelina, surrounding her with the same steady, enduring love that shaped every part of Benjie’s life. Benjie leaves behind a family who will forever carry his love in their hearts. He is survived by his four children—Diana, Dawn, BJ, and Angelina—along with seven grandchildren: Salyna, Mark‑Anthony, Jazmyne, Kaylani, Liam, Lina, and Noah. He also leaves two precious great‑grandchildren, John and Jayde. In addition, Benjie is remembered with deep affection by his siblings and by the many nieces and nephews who were touched by his kindness, humor, and steady presence throughout their lives. He loved camping and barbecuing with family and friends, enjoyed driving buses for work, took great pleasure in playing dominos, and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees. Benjie also enjoyed being at home watching television and relaxing with those he loved. He was often telling jokes just to get a big smile or laugh from loved ones. Those who knew him could tell you at least one of the many sayings he always had in his back pocket, ready for any moment. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his humor, laughter, and the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of his family and friends. His memory will continue to live on through the stories shared, the lessons remembered, and the smiles he inspired in so many. Psalm 77:19 “Your way was in the sea, Your path in the great waters, And Your footsteps were not known.”

Mr. Benjamin Ruiz

August 12, 1950 - February 8, 2026