Joseph Raymond Ruiz

Joseph Raymond “Joe” Ruiz, 95, of Lincoln Park, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2026. He was born on February 25, 1931.

Joe was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served on active duty during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. As a member of the engineering division, he worked as a minesweeper. For his service he was awarded three Bronze Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation. He was rarely seen without his Korean War Veteran hat and remained deeply proud of his time in uniform.

After returning home from Korea, Joe met the love of his life, Sue Brown. They were married for more than 71 years. His life was devoted to Sue and their family. Their days were centered on friends and family. Evenings were spent on the front porch with cherished neighbors, watching the children play in the yard. Weekends often found them playing cards at the VFW, and summers were spent at the lake with the kids. In retirement they enjoyed weekend golf trips with friends and winters down south hosting family.

Joe’s will to live was rooted in his love for his family. He survived the war, later overcame cancer, a brain injury, a heart attack, and years of misdiagnosed bone-on-bone hip pain—yet he continued to serve as Sue’s primary caregiver with quiet strength and unwavering devotion. Most of all, they treasured time together with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at the lake in the Irish Hills.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of more than 71 years, Sue, his four children, Deneen Marie Ruiz, Nancy Maher (Steve), Joseph C. Ruiz (June), and Mike Ruiz (Kelli); his six grandchildren, Micheal (Michelle), Steven (Sarah), Jeffrey (Sarah), Joey, Alec, and Alayna; and his five great-grandchildren, Jackson, Brent, Sylvie Sue, Sadie Jo, and Shawn. He was preceded in death by his mother Pauline and his sister Annie.

Joe’s life was marked by quiet courage, enduring love, and a steadfast commitment to the people he held most dear. He will be deeply missed. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joe's name to the American Heart Association.