Ruben Lugo

Ruben Lugo, 83, may be gone but he will never be forgotten. His lust for life ended on October 16, 2025, in St. George, Utah. Ruben’s love of life started on January 25, 1942, in beautiful Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. Born to Pedro and Maria Lugo, he was one of thirteen children.

Ruben knew how to live and love life to the fullest. He made everyone feel like they were his best friend. Ruben loved the oldies-but-goodies music of the 50’s and was constantly playing it while tinkering in the garage on his late wife Sydney’s 1965 Ford Mustang. Dancing came natural to him and many of his friends ran into him on the dance floor in Mesquite, Nevada tearing up a rug. After wearing himself out dancing, you’d find him kicking up his feet, removing his ball cap and cowboy boots and turning on a western movie.

Ruben had a work ethic like no other! At times he held not only one job but two. From 35 years at Salt Lake County to a 2nd job as a mechanic at Sears, he always was able to provide for his family. And even after retiring, he continued working hard as the most famous, well-loved St. George crossing guard! The children were always excited to have Ruben help them across the street – maybe all those treats helped!

Ruben was preceded in death by his first wife Karma Haun and his second wife Sydney Lugo; his parents Pedro and Maria, and his brother Pete, sister Gladys and many wonderful friends from Bingham (Copperton) and West Jordan.

He is survived by his wife Elsie; children Karee, Kelly (Karma), Rusty and Mark (Sydney); stepchildren Brent, Eric (Sydney) Doug, Danny and Shauna (Elsie), and Sandy. Survived also by four brothers and six sisters: Joe, Norma, Lucy, Eva, Eddie, Wilson, Nelson, Debra, Diann and Denise. And 19 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.

Ruben was a legend in the truest sense of the word. From his tough guy “man’s man” nature to his soft, joyful nature, Ruben chose to always be himself. RIP Ruben!

A celebration of life will be held at St. Thomas More Church on Friday, November 14th from 6-9pm for close family and friends.