Ronald J. Ruiz, age 62, of South Bend, formerly of Wakarusa and Nappanee, died unexpectedly in Temple, Texas, at 8:18 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015. He was born August 5, 1953 in Elkhart  to Victor and Bernice (Bonner) Ruiz. He was married to Marilyn Cowles. She preceded him in death February 22, 2010.

Ron had lived his lifetime in this area. He served in the United States Army for 13 years during the Vietnam era. He was a truck driver for Werner Enterprise. Ron loved his grandkids and great-grandkids. He enjoyed photography and was a huge Notre Dame, Kansas City Royals, and Chief fan.

Mr. Ruiz is survived by his daughter: Angela (Dwayne) Schultz, Rensselaer; stepdaughters: Shanna (Kenny) Griggs, South Bend; Stacy (Dan) Cowles, Bourbon; Debra (Lori) Frazier, South Bend; stepson: Kenny Cowles III, South Bend; grandchildren: Kyle Haas; Kyle Griggs; Kelsey (Terry) Malone; Kali Haas; Daniel Tucker Jr.; Austen Tucker; Zachary Tucker; Nolan Schultz; Connor Schultz; Alana Kern; Tyler Kern; Rachael Sexton; and Aiyannah and Brendan Frazier; great-grandchildren: Zoie; Zayden; Zaleigh Malone; and Nalani Sexton; father: Victor (Carmen) Ruiz, Joliet, Ill.; sister: Debbie (Steve) Hajicek, Goshen; and a half brother: Victor Ruiz, Ill.

Family and friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015 at Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, at the funeral home. Rev. Henry Vosburgh, Heritage Bible Church in Remington, will officiate. Burial will be in Island Chapel Cemetery, Nappanee with Military Graveside services.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Boys and Girls Club or to American Cancer Society.