Ruben Sazon Mina

Ruben Sazon Mina – affectionately known as "Diko" to his younger siblings, "Tatay" to his sons and grandchildren, and "Ben" to many – passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of his family in Menifee, CA. He was born on October 31, 1937, in Culis, Hermosa, Bataan, Philippines. He was the fourth of nine children born to Pedro Decena Mina and Elisea Fabunan Sazon Mina: Norma, Ramon, Corazon, Ruben, Fernando, Gloria, Aurora, Sonia, and Orlan.
Ruben's journey through life was marked by hard work, love, and generosity. As a young man, he was known for his sharp sense of style and for his great care in keeping his belongings tidy. He cherished time with his family, often choosing to stay home after school rather than play outside. He attended Balanga Elementary School and later graduated from Arellano Memorial High School in 1954. After high school, Ruben pursued vocational school and graduated with an associate's degree in Stenography.
He dedicated more than 36 years of his life to the former U.S. Naval Base in Subic Bay. He pursued training in bartending, which led to his promotion as head bartender. In this role, he served not only the U.S. Navy Sampaguita Enlisted Club, but also supported the Navy Officers' Club, the Binictican Golf Course, the bowling alley, and several other facilities onboard Subic Naval Base. In 1993, he immigrated to the United States, embracing a new chapter and proudly becoming a naturalized citizen 15 years later. He lived in Hawaii, and eventually resided in California where he worked at Pechanga Resort Casino for 17 years, retiring from the workforce at the age of 83.
Ruben raised four sons and embraced his role as a father with love and dedication, leaving a profound impact on their lives. He found endless joy in being the beloved "Tatay" to his adoring grandchildren, creating memories that they will treasure forever.
Though he lived a humble life, much of his time was spent on his passions, which included art, cooking, bowling, billiards, and gardening. His creativity, thoughtfulness, and zest for life were evident in all that he did, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. In his later years, Ruben often reminisced about his childhood in Bataan and dreamed of returning to Culis. While he did not make that journey again, his memory and the stories he shared will forever connect him to his beloved hometown.
Ruben will be remembered as a caring, kind, and supportive man who touched the lives of many. He is survived by his four sons (Ruben Jr., Raul, Roberto, Roldan) and their families, as well as five of his siblings (Corazon, Gloria, Aurora, Sonia, Orlan). In his passing, Ruben is reunited with his beloved parents, "Inang" Elisea and "Tatang" Pedro, and his dear siblings, Ate Norma, Kuya Ramon, and Fernando. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who love him, and his spirit will continue to guide and inspire those he held closest.
Rest in peace, Tatay. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished.