Ruben J. Leyva was called home by our Lord on Friday, August 25th, 2023.  We are heart-broken at his untimely passing but take solace that our mother Mercie came to help him transition.  We take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his parents (Miguel and Alicia Leyva), brother (Mike Leyva), and beloved wife who he affectionately called "Chatita "as well as his extended family and friends who all preceded him in passing.  Our dad missed our mom so much though it is hard to describe in words but at least now he is comforted and at peace in his real home with our Lord and Savior.

Ruben (82) was born January 6th, 1941. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard for 33 years before retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer. He had countless friends and made new ones at every opportunity.  He was a very friendly and sociable person.  He always had time for friendly conversation and loved telling stories, sometimes repeatedly, but that was his nature.  He was pleased to bring a smile to your face and help you if you needed it.  He held many jobs throughout his life but mostly he was a dedicated Mechanic having worked for himself, the City of Douglas as a shop foreman, and the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol as a Lead Mechanic. He also was a reserve Police Officer for the city of Douglas. He loved hunting, fishing and pretty much anything outdoors. Dad had a great singing voice and in his youth was courted by a record label, but he eventually chose marriage and family over a possible singing career. He was a devout man with strong religious beliefs.  He made many friends across religious denominations and loved his fellowman because Jesus called us to love one another as he loved us.  "We will try to live up to that part of who you were Dad."

Ruben is survived by his son Ruben J. Leyva Jr. (Erica), his daughters Irma Mason and Mary Sabin (George).  His grandchildren include Ted Leyva (Rebecca), Jenise Figueroa (Nick), Laci Leyva, Aiden Leyva, Ethan Leyva, Travis John "TJ" Mason (Dazzlyn), Tyler Mason, Cynthia N. Amezquita, Eric M. Sabin, and great granddaughters Emma Leyva, Camila Nicole Figueroa and Penelope Dulce Figueroa. Dad dearly loved all his children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his three sisters, Alicia Ceballos, Estella McNatt (Mike), Francis Estrada and numerous nieces and nephews.

A viewing is scheduled at Brown-Page Mortuary for Friday morning, September 15th from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.  A Rosary for Ruben will be recited at 10:15 AM at St. Luke's Catholic Church followed by a Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 AM.  A Celebration of Life will follow at the American Legion Post 11 from 12:30 to 3:00pm. Pallbearers are Ted Leyva, Nick Figueroa, George A. Sabin, Tyler Mason, Arturo Torres and Frank Vazquez.  Honorary Pallbearers are Eric M. Sabin, Aiden Leyva, Beto Barcelo, Frank Arvizu and Frank Cornejo.

On Saturday September 23 at 10:30am a graveside service will take place at Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors by the U.S. Army Honor Guard and the American Legion Post 11. A time for final goodbyes and an opportunity for those unable to attend the service on the 15th.