Fernando Ruiz entered into Heaven on January 9, 2020 at the age of 81. He was born to Arturo Ruiz and Juanita Fuentes in San Antonio on June 25, 1938. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Maria Concepcion R. Blanco-Cerda, Carlos Ruiz, Esther R. Guzman and Juventina R. Lochridge. He is survived by his daughter Frances CR Naval and husband Michael, grandson Brandon P. Arriaga and son Gabriel Tovar.

Fernando worked as a civil servant for Kelly AFB in the Mess Hall and then transferred to Lackland AFB where he worked as a cook in the NCO Club. After working at the bases, Fernando went on to work for HEB, where he retired from in 2009. During his time at HEB, he also worked at Whataburger as a cook, and Girling Health Institute where he provided patient services such as cooking, cleaning and washing clothes for the patients he cared for. Fernando loved watching Jeopardy, The Price is Right (which he attended when they visited San Antonio), collecting coins and playing the lottery. Fernando loved his time spent at HEB, even after retirement, he looked forward to grocery shopping every Tuesday to visit his friends, especially at stores #9 and #36. His HEB partners played a huge role in uplifting his spirits with their positive vibes and caring hearts. Fernando's playful and loving nature will be missed by his family and friends.

A Mass will be held in Fernando's honor on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 9:00 am  At St. Leo the Great Catholic Church.