Rafael M. Ruiz

Rafael M. Ruiz was born January 4, 1933, in Zacatecas, Mexico, to Emilio y Fidela (Mendez) Ruiz. He passed away Monday, September 28, 2015, in at his home in Whittier, California, at the age of 82.



Rafael grew up and went to school in Mexico. At the age of 16, he ran away from home and made his way to the United States. He spent about a year in Texas before heading west to Los Angeles County, California where he made his new home. Some years later he met the love of his life, Carmen Medina. They were married in March of 1961 and made their home in Compton, California. They eventually moved to Southgate, California, where they raised their four children.



Always on the go, Rafael kept himself busy all the time. He enjoyed upholstery, gardening, and tinkering around with most everything. He had an exemplary work ethic and spent many years in the maintenance department of Los Angeles County Medical Center.



Rafael made an impression wherever he went. He was a real character who was friendly to all and enjoyed talking. He could be grouchy, but beneath the crust was a lot of love. Though he was quite independent minded, Carmen was his rock. He was a bit lost since her untimely passing in 1997. The family finds comfort in thinking of them being reunited.



Survivors include his children, Ernest Ruiz, Nora (Dean) Alfrey, Angelica (David Camacho) Ruiz, and Maricela (Raymond Jimenez) Ruiz; siblings, Emilio, Roberto, and Francisco Ruiz and Alicia Avalos; 7 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.



Viewing will take place from 5-7pm on Thursday, October 8, 2015, at White Emerson Mortuary, 13304 E. Philadelphia St., Whittier, California, followed by a vigil service at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated the following morning, Friday, October 9, 2015, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 8545 Norwalk Blvd., Whittier, California. Interment will take place at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier, California.