Gilbert Flores Ruiz was the son of Ignacio and Petra Ruiz. He was born November 15, 1928, in Bisbee Arizona. He had 14 siblings, all preceeded in death except his brother David. They were: Ignacio, Idolina, Juan, Luis, Alice, Roberto, Gilbert, Jose, Beatriz, David and Edmundo.
He was a gifted and talented athlete. He had many opportunities to become a professional baseball player. His father passed away at an early age and therefore was compelled to take care of his family. At the age of 20, he served our country by joining the Navy for four years, sending most of his money back home to his Mom.
He is preceded in death by his wife Artemisa Salas. They were married for 64 years before her passing. They had five children: Gilbert Jr. (Virginia) Solis, Sylvia (Dan) Montoya, Loretta (Ray whom is deceased) Borquez, Vivian (Rick) Villalba , Suzanne (Housain) Monazzami.
Gilbert has 14 grandchildren, Diana Hackler, Amber & Joe Castro, Andrew Herrera, Gilbert Michael, Richard, Michelle Ruiz, Paul & Julia Montoya, Ricardo, Louis and Beatriz Villalba, Sara & Andi Monazzami and 13 great grandchildren. With so many siblings, he had an abundance of beautiful nieces and nephews.
Gilbert was a God loving man and a member of St Rose of Lima Church. He loved hunting, golfing sports and family.
Arrangements made through McDougal’s Funeral Chapel and Gila Valley Crematory located at 112 E Main St Safford, AZ 85546. 928-428-1740 www.Caldwell funeral chapel.com
Click this link to view additional details about Gilbert's Services, including any available live streams: https://my.gather.app/remember/gilbert-ruiz
