Ruben Ornelas

Ruben Ornelas of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at his home with his wife by his side. He was 71 years old. Ruben Ornelas was born on March 31, 1952, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Manuela Mendez. He was a proud 1969 graduate of Arthur Hill High School. Following graduation, Ruben began working for General Motors - Grey Iron, retiring after 25 years of loyal and dedicated service. He met the love of his life, Christine Gail White, within their neighborhood. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage in 1983, celebrating wonderful 40 years together. The role of his lifetime, and one he loved above all others, was to be a loving and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. His little piece of heaven was playing on his guitar and listening to, as well as creating music. He was a gifted and skilled woodworker, building and designing furniture, shelves, or whatever he wanted to build. A bit of an instigator, Ruben absolutely loving picked on the people he loved and cared about, it was how he showed his love. Above all, he treasured and cherished his grandchildren. Though he could be strong-willed, Ruben will forever be remembered for his charm and charisma, his spontaneity, for his love of family, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.

Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Christine G. Ornelas of Saginaw: six children: Connie (Gary) Rochefort of Bad Axe; Gayle Slavin of Bad Axe; Holly Krenz of Saginaw; Ruben (Charlotte) Ornelas Jr. of Saginaw; Jesse (Amanda) Ornelas of NY; Elena (Nathan) Korson of VT; 17 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; two brothers and three sisters: Frank Ornelas, Josie Ornelas, Joe Ornelas, Isabel Gonzalez, and Candy Osuna.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Manuela Mendez; two sons-in-law: Edwin Slavin and Shawn Krenz; and many brothers and sisters.

Honoring Ruben's wishes cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.