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Spc. Isela Rubalcava
Spc. Isela Rubalcava
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Isela Rubalcava Obituary
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Charlie Gili
April 22, 2025
Hello,
We wanted to let your family and friends know that we are sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and some of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and hometown of Isela Rubalcava US Army Sergeant.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families and friends and others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Robert O'Rourke
May 8, 2024
ISA, (Sgt Ruby), 20 years now to the day & still always on my thoughts & prayers. Most would probably have gotten over, but so much more difficult when theres a face to the name (we interacted often with me being in the motorpool & you in supply, inventories). Maybe god has you inventorying wings, halos & harps.
The world whole world lost a wonderful loving woman & we lost a dedicated soldier.
Always in my thoughts & prayers...
Robert O'Rourke
May 8, 2024
ISA, (Sgt Ruby), 20 years now to the day & still always on my thoughts & prayers. Most would probably have gotten over, but so much more difficult when theres a face to the name (we interacted often with me being in the motorpool & you in supply, inventories). Maybe god has you inventorying wings, halos & harps.
The world whole world lost a wonderful loving woman & we lost a dedicated soldier.
Always in my thoughts & prayers...
SIMION TAIYEGIR
May 8, 2020
The most caring person I know. You are gone but never be forgotten. Your memory lingers within those of who knew you, worked beside you and played volleyball with you. Your infectious smile and sudden departure has left a wounded scar t deep in our soul. It was a great honor to know you and worked with you. R.I.P.
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Dwaine Drummond
November 12, 2019
I was with SPC Rubalcava when she left us so suddenly. I shared her story on Facebook yesterday as I remembered our Veterans. I think of her and her family often. God Bless her family and may your memories sustain you.
K D
May 9, 2019
Its been 15 years already. Although I never got to meet you in person I had the privilege and honor to stand by someone who was dearly close to you during the hard times of remembrance of your dedication in fighting for our country. I got to witness at a daily basis the struggle it is for a family to lose a loved one in combat. It was not easy to experience and it was not easy to understand at their level but I got to know you on a different personal level. During difficult times in my life when I was very involved with your loved ones I found myself reaching out to you in prayer. I would feel that if God gained you as an angel in heaven that maybe you could help deliver my prayers to Him for me and then I wouldn't feel like God was not listening. Life got so crazy and just spiraled out of control but you continued to be someone I trusted deep in my heart. The stories of you and just how you would bring life to those who spoke so highly of you brought so much confort in getting to know you without actually having met you in person. You have brought so much honor to your family. Every thing you did and your dedication to our country will forever be known. You will never be forgotten. You are a true hero in so many ways. Even as someone I would turn to in dark times. You will forever be a beautiful angel up in heaven and hope to meet you some day.
Oscar A
May 8, 2019
LOVE YOU! MAY YOU REST IN PEACE IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD!!!!! MISS YOU MY FRIEND!!!!!
Janet Jordan
March 19, 2019
Ruby even though I know you may not need them I still say my prayers and include you. You made an indelible impression on everyone you met. I just want to be sure you have your rightful place in heaven and that you are nice and comfy:-)PEACE My Friend
Christopher Dutton
March 18, 2019
It's been 18 years since I last had the chance to work with Isela, then SPC Rubalcava in Korea. I was her Platoon Sergeant back in 2001, and her Drill Sergeant in Basic Training. I could always count on her to perform so much better than those who had more time and more experience than her. She was a stellar Soldier and person. She always spoke so much about her family. She's touched my heart so much, her loss still gets me to this day. SPC Rubalcava was a great person!
Oscar Almendarez
May 25, 2015
Sgt Isela Rubalca may you Rest In Peace and may God Bless you always met you and your fiance in Mosul I didn't know you for long but will never forget you. Thank You for your Service but thank you for putting a smile on the face of everyone you've ever met , love you it was my Honor to have served with you once again may God Bless You always and Thank You for being so kind to others Thank You.
William Pomares
February 28, 2014
Isela , I remembered like if it was yesterday that we meet at inprocesing at Ft Lewis. We click immediately along with Pablo. Three Musketeer's the Mexican Girl, Pablo the Nicoya and the puertorrican what a trio.Will never forget the good times together. The day we got the news back in Lewis our hearts were pierce.
You were not supposed to be there at Mosul. You were supposed to be in Germany and you were so happy that you were heading that way. Still remembered your face when you came by Pablo's barracks so mad and crying cause they canceled your orders to Germany.
I love u sister. The best friend and battle buddy I could ask. I am at El Paso now and will go to visit you this weekend.
To your parents and to abuelita, I know that you are proud of your daugther and with a very good reason she was a great soldier and an outstanding. Incredible selfless human being.
Till we meet again sister.
Janet Jordan
January 12, 2014
Ruby,
Every time I think of you I would like that it gives you peace. From the day we lost a remarkable human being to today with all the fond memories of your incredible going nature. Rest in peace my friend and eternal "Battle Buddy"
Karina Alvarado
May 8, 2013
9 years ago on this day you left this world. But even though you left physically, spiritually you are still among those you meant dearly to. Wish I could have met you, but only god knows why he took you to join him when he did. I hear so many great memories of you. You were such a remarkable person. Rest in peace Isela Rubalcava. People like you who have sacrificed their lives for the freedom of others will undoubtedly deserve to live in heaven for an eternal life. You will never be forgotten!
March 20, 2013
In memory and honor of Spc. Isela Rubalcava. We will be eternally grateful for her service and sacrifice.
cheryl martin
March 20, 2013
thankyouforyourservice
H. P.
May 9, 2012
R.I.P. Isela Rubalcava
Those who give all they have for the freedom of other people are the true children of their almighty God. That is why you are now in Heaven with Him. Live good there for an eternal life.
Peggy Childers
May 8, 2012
To the family and friends of Spc. Isela Rubalcava:
Always remembering Isela. "Some gave all."
L Neal
June 1, 2011
To the family of Spc. Isela Rubalcava:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; her sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people she died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for her bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
mary young
May 30, 2011
Saluting your veteran this Memorial Day.
Paul Farrell
May 21, 2011
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Vanessa Gee
May 9, 2011
May you continue to Rest in Peace, Battle. You will Never be forgotten!"
Peggy Childers
May 8, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. Isela Rubalcava:
Please accept my remembrance of Isela on the anniversary of her passing and know that she will never be forgotten.
H. P.
May 8, 2011
Rest in peace Isela Rubalcava
People like you who have sacrificed their lives for the freedom of others will undoubtedly deserve to live in heaven for an eternal life. Live good in heaven Isela for ever and may God bless you and give patience to your family to endure your loss.
Young Kim
July 25, 2010
Just read the book "Northern Disclosure" by SSG Toby Nunn. SSG Nunn was one of the people who tried to save her before she died. Her story was mentioned in pg 121.
Peggy Childers
May 8, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. Isela Rubalcava:
Remembering Isela on the anniversary of her passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Rob & Mague Ponce
April 19, 2010
I will always remember you a the smiling child of God that you weere... You were always laughing and making people smile! My daughters will always look up to you as their HERO... Love you cousin!
Familia ,
Ponce-Garcia
http://www.honorandremember.org
April 19, 2010
Claudia Garcia
April 18, 2010
I will always remeber my cousin Isela as the life of the party. Always was the first to get on the dance floor and was always ttying to get everyone to go out on the dance floor with her. She will for ever be in my heart. I miss you alot.
Jesus y Juana Garcia
April 18, 2010
despues de pasado el tiempo seguimos sin encontrar palabras para poder expresarnos por el dolor que sienten sus Padres y hermanos, pero sabemos que ella sigue en el corazon de todos.
La Fam. Garcia-Rubalcaba.
la Familia Garcia-Rubalcaba
MAJ Fred Hobson
February 12, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
December 4, 2009
Rest in peace Ruby. You will always be remembered and never forgotten.
Frontline!
Vanessa Gee
November 18, 2009
I think about SGT Ruby often. Just want to say she was so sweet and and fun to be around. Always had a smile! Love you, Ruby.
Christina Ball
November 8, 2009
Isela,...you became my room mate in september or october 2001 at Fort Lewis, Wa.I had orders for Germany and left that same year in november.You never had a dull moment on your side of the room.There was always laughter. I remember you and your friends went to the store the evening before my departure and you bought me an ice cream as I was pregnant and that was really nice and sweet!You were my last room mate...
When I asked you how you pronounced your last name, because I did not want to mess it up,I reminded my self in Germany so that i would not forget since I wasn't going to see again.
Isela,...In Jan2007, I was so sad, shocked and stunned to learn what had happened back in May 2004...I am so deeply sorry and sad that you are not physically here, but your memory lives on.
And to your mother, father and brothers and family and friends near and dear to you,...my deepest sympathy and condolences...
Christina
Kenna Larra
October 12, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Mothers and/or Fathers, of our heroes, please be aware that the Project Compassion sponsors will now help cover the costs of the portraits for you to have one - regardless if the spouse of the hero has one or not!
Contact us directly at [email protected]. or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and bless you.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Project Compassion
P.O. Box 153
Manti, Utah 84642
Guadalupe Alexander
June 17, 2009
Ruby was such a great person!! I miss her dearly!! She was not only one of my Soldiers, but one of my Best Friends!!! I wear a bracelet to remember her all the time!! I always remember her on her anniversary and also her birthday!!! I truely do miss her, and never be forgotten!! I will never forget my Ruby!!!
SHIRLEY DONEY
May 24, 2009
REST IN PEACE SPC. RUBALCAVA, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU
Edna Lina Garcia
May 10, 2009
You are deeply missed Ruby, for you amazing personality, for being a piece of home while being so far from home. Bless your family for allowing me into their home and sharing such a special part of your families life. My last memories with Isela where there in El Paso, there with her family and friends for her parents 50th? I think. She was sooo very loved and she made everyone smile and laugh. That was a wonderful way to remember her. Together with her family and a smile on her face, like always. Now I am here and I constantly think of my beloved amiga. Wishing I could change the past events, but now only pray to God that as the time goes and her memory lives, that we all that loved her so and miss her continue to have these cherished memories and know that Isela is one angel we will never forget. To the Rubalcava Familia, I send you my love and a salute.
Spc. Edna Lina Garcia LSA Adder/ Tallil
Edna Lina Garcia
May 10, 2009
You are deeply missed Ruby, for you amazing personality, for being a piece of home while being so far from home. Bless your family for allowing me into their home and sharing such a special part of your families life. My last memories with Isela where there in El Paso, there with her family and friends for her parents 50th? I think. She was sooo very loved and she made everyone smile and laugh. That was a wonderful way to remember her. Together with her family and a smile on her face, like always. Now I am here and I constantly think of my beloved amiga. Wishing I could change the past events, but now only pray to God that as the time goes and her memory lives, that we all that loved her so and miss her continue to have these cherished memories and know that Isela is one angel we will never forget. To the Rubalcava Familia, I send you my love and a strong salute.
Spc. Edna Lina Garcia LSA Adder/ Tallil
benicio gutierrez de pineres
May 10, 2009
ruby, estaba pensandote hace dos dias, recordandote cuando te vi en camino para el chow, i miss u
Peggy Childers
May 9, 2009
To the family of Spc. Isela Rubalcava:
Isela gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Pedro Carrasco
March 18, 2009
My Heart and prayers to the Rubalcava Family, & A follow Texan and from Canutillo May SPC. Isela get her wings, watch over your family fly like an EAGLE!!
Gilberto Telles
September 20, 2008
To an extrodinary Warrior that gave all she could. OORAH ! Hokahey ( Charge ! )
R Collis
July 31, 2008
It is difficult to know what to say since I want to express my sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Spc Rubalcava. Please know that your loved one is not forgotten. I wish everyone impacted by this tragic loss strength and peace. I hope that Spc Rubalcava knew that there are people in America who respect her great courage in serving as a member of the US military. Although I did not know her, I know that she must have been a very special person to be willing to do something that most Americans will never have to experience, and for that we can never say thank you enough.
Thank you Spc Rubalcava!
The Neal family
May 26, 2008
To the family of Spc. Rubalcava,
Please know that just as your loved one will remain in your hearts and minds, her sacrifice and that of your family, will remain with the people she died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for her bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God grant you the peace that passes all understanding.
In Memory of Isela ~ ( Debra Estep )
May 8, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
I did not know Isela, but I am remembering
her service. She is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
Visit this link to hear the song.
The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
March 27, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Rubalcava!
August 9, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 10, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Rubalcava and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses her! May God bless all of you!!
Garnet Jenkins
May 7, 2007
It is an honor to pay tribute to Spc. Isela Rubalcava, with a Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Heroine's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
May Isela Rest Safely, in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of God continue to be with the Rubalcava family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"I will lift up my eyes to the hills- from whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth."
~ Psalm 121:1-2 ~
I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country Remembers Someone Very Precious to you, who is a Heroine to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your loss.
Nazario Borja
January 4, 2007
Sgt. Ruby was a special friend to me. Our tour in Iraq together was something I will never forget. I loved this person. Many will remember Isela because she is loving, caring, and a wonderful friend. You ment the world to me and when it got loud around us that day, You were in my prayers. I love you Isela.
Vanessa Gee
August 29, 2006
SGT Ruby was the best. Her mom would send her chocolate and I would ask for some. She was so sweet and funny, also. You could see that she really touched everyone in the company. I do miss her and think about her all the time.
steve myers
May 25, 2006
Isela's picture and profile will be placed on my DJ booth on memorial day for all to see.
Pat Canfall
April 10, 2006
My condolences to the Rubalcava family. Isela may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.
John Huggins
September 20, 2005
Everyone knew her as Ruby. No one could get her last name right. I knew her for a little more than a year. I was stationed with her at Ft Lewis. She was great to be around. She will be missed.
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