Gilbert "Gil" Ruiz

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gilbert Ruiz, 90. Gilbert was born in East Chicago, Indiana on December 19. 1933 and passed away on December 27, 2023. Gilbert resided in Pittsburg most of his life until he recently moved to Clovis, California.

Gilbert served in the US Air Force 3520 and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Gilbert married the love of his life Virginia Quesada. They resided in Wichita, Kansas where their two daughters Lucy and Laura were born. They moved to Virginia’s hometown of Pittsburg where Gilbert became a Letter Carrier with the US Postal Service until he retired. Gilbert was a firm believer in giving back to his community. He served as a member of the Pittsburg Planning Commission as well as serving as a School Board member with the Pittsburg Unified School District. He was also involved in many community organizations such as the Local Kiwanis, Give Always to Others, and the Cesar E Chavez Committee of Pittsburg. Gilbert received many awards, honors, and accolades for his years of community service including being honored as the Citizen of the Year. Gilbert had a love for music, especially salsa. He played in several bands in his younger years. He was an avid racquetball player. He loved supporting his Raiders, Oakland A’s, and Golden State Warriors.

Gilbert was born to Severo and Constancia Ruiz. He had ten brothers and sisters: Lupe, Robert, Rudy, Barney, Severo, Alfonso, Joaquin, Rosalinda, Gloria, and Rolando. Gilbert is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Virginia, his two daughters Lucy Ruiz (Bobby Salazar), Laura Ruiz Bingham (Joel). Gilbert had four grandchildren: Michael Powell (Tara), Laura Bergstrom (John), Gilbert Norton and Angelica Norton.  He is also survived by his great grandchildren: Charlotte Bergstrom, Phoebe Bergstrom, Felicity Powell, and Makenna Foy.

Gilbert was a loving, caring, and giving individual who loved spending time with his family and friends. He will be missed by all who were fortunate to know him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, from 9:30am to 10:30am at the Pittsburg Funeral Chapel. Funeral liturgy following at 11:00am at Church of the Good Shepherd. Committal services following at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch. 

Donations in honor of Gil Ruiz may be made to Pittsburg Kiwanis c/o Cecilia Stone 765Santa Ana Dr. Pittsburg, CA 94565 or Venmo.