It is with great sadness that the family of Ronaldo Aaron Ruybal, aka: Ron, announces his passing after a brief and sudden illness, on Sept. 9, 2023. He was 53.

Ron dedicated his life to helping others. He was a noble, generous and loving person. He worked within the Santa Fe Public School system as a gym teacher, working with children with special needs then pursued a job with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of New Mexico’s Northern Region. He also volunteered as a Big Brother to multiple littles that needed support, guidance and a good role model in their lives. He later left BBBS after connecting littles with bigs for 18 years, to pursue his first passion of the ultimate gift of life.

In 2006, Ron’s mom needed a kidney and Ron, without hesitation, donated one of his kidneys to his mom, giving her the ultimate gift of life and the opportunity to share more time with her family and to meet her grandchildren.

Ron’s open heart and ever-giving attitude never stopped with just his kidney donation to his mom. He worked with New Mexico Donor Services (NMDS) with such a joy and fire for the cause. Each day he educated the community on the importance of organ donation. 

Ron will be lovingly remembered by his wife Jessica of Albuquerque, N.M., his stepson Cody and son Ronnie, 6, sisters Aleesha Goodman of Albuquerque, N.M., Rhonda (Martin) Ruybal Falvey of Thornton, Colo., brother Nathan (Alicia) Ruybal of Antonito, Colo., niece Mariquita Ruybal and nephew Maximiliano Ruybal, both 9.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents Ronaldo U. Ruybal and Lucy T. Ruybal; aunt/Godmother Bernadette Giron, nephew Patricio U. Martinez de Ruybal, brother-in-law Mathias Goodman and other beloved family members.

Cremation was chosen and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at 10 a.m. at St. Michael and All Angels Church at 601 Montaño Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107.

A Go Fund Me account has been established and the money raised will be for his son, Ronnie’s, future and education. To leave condolences and/or donations please visit: https://gofund.me/55cbfa4d.