Ruben Norte

Ruben Norte
June 12,1945 - November 8,2025

Ruben Norte, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. He suffered a massive stroke and despite all efforts, he did not recover. He was surrounded by his family. Born on June 12, 1945, Ruben lived a life rich in creativity, dedication, and love.

Ruben-received his early education at St. Joseph's Catholic School, attending from kindergarten through 8th grade. He then entered Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Santa Fe, New Mexico, before later transferring to Jesuit High School, where he graduated in 1963 on a football scholarship. After returning from military service, he completed his college education at the University of Texas at El Paso, earning his Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communications in 1970.

In 1967, during what would have been his final year of college, Ruben was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He served honorably for two years, spending part of that time in Germany, where he wrote for the Army newspaper. Though eager to finish his degree, he remained deeply proud of having served his country and often spoke of that time with gratitude.

Ruben began his career with the Los Angeles CBS station (KNXT) as a copy boy, determined to prove his abilities as a writer. His talent quickly became evident, and he rose to become one of their news writers. He later accepted a position as a special project's producer at KNBC, where he earned his first News Emmy and Golden Mike for "The Privacy Invasion," followed by a second Emmy for "The Latinization of Los Angeles."

He went on to join Unit 4, an investigative news team, and later produced award-winning documentary work, including a Cable ACE National Award for his series on Biography. Following this, he also worked on Dateline, further expanding his impact in investigative and documentary storytelling. His executive producer later recommended him for a new show called Entertainment Tonight, where he began as an Associate Director and soon became one of the program's directors. His work opened doors to countless projects, allowing him to meet and interview many of the world's most famous celebrities. Much later, he joined close friends at the Weller/Grossman production company, creating some of his finest documentary work, including projects for the History Channel and Biography. He also produced for On the Scene Productions, contributing to national programming with his signature care and storytelling depth.

Ruben's greatest story, however, began at 18 years of age when he met Zita. From the moment they saw each other, it was love at first sight. Their bond grew into a lifelong partnership defined by devotion, respect, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Together, they were blessed with 58 years of marriage and two beautiful children and one grandchild. Their marriage was the heart of Ruben's life, and he cherished every year they shared.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ruben was a man of curiosity, warmth, and quiet brilliance. He had a lifelong love of photography-his favorite subject being his grandson, Remy. He cherished traveling, discovering new places with gratitude and wonder. Above all, Ruben loved his family deeply and unconditionally. His gentle humor, generous spirit, and steady presence made him the heart of every room. He believed in the power of stories, truth, and human connection.

Ruben was preceded in death by his parents, Raul and Guadalupe Norte, and his brothers, Robert and Rick Norte.

He is survived by his wife, Zita; their son, Ruben Andre Norte; their daughter, Zita Bovee; their son-in-law, Kyle Bovee; and his beloved grandson, Remy. He is also survived by his sister, Terri Norte LaVelle, and her husband, Paul LaVelle; his brother, Rudy Norte, and his wife, Tracey Norte; and his Naudin siblings, who were brothers and sisters to him in every way.

Services for Ruben will be held after the holidays. A Mass will be celebrated, followed by burial at Fort Bliss National Cemetery and a celebration of his life
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Ruben's honor. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ruben, please visit our floral store.