My beautiful wife of 29 years, Maria Ruiz, passed away on Tuesday. Maria was the heart of every room she entered — full of laughter, courage, and love. She stood fiercely for what she believed in and didnt care what anyone else thought. She cared deeply for those around her, and showed up for anyone any time they needed it. She had a gift for turning even the simplest moment into something unforgettable - from family game nights, making our kids (& later, grandkids) customized easter baskets that would be the envy of all those around, to making the best foods and doing it all without batting an eye. There was truly no one like her. She was fiery, joyful, and authentic. She was her true self in any setting and that was why so many people loved her.

As I sit and write this, I am still in disbelief as I cannot imagine my life without her by my side. Losing her has left an immeasurable void in our lives. She was the glue to our family and I don't know what we will do without her. The only comfort i have is knowing her mom and our grand-dog, Shadow, were there waiting for her on the other side to welcome her home. When I think of her, I will always remember her dancing and having fun, no matter where we were at, with that light that made her unforgettable. That is how she will live in my heart forever. Its so hard to even picture life without her.

Her passing came without warning, and now I face the painful task of arranging her funeral and burial. This loss has been compounded by my own recent major surgery, which has left me unable to work. The financial burden of these unexpected expenses is overwhelming, but my greatest wish is to honor her with a celebration of her life, one as beautiful and meaningful as the love she gave so freely to all of us. Donations will be used to cover funeral expenses.

I will miss her for the rest of my life and I never pictured this being my reality but I want to thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for helping me honor her memory.