Miguel A. Martinez Ruiz

Obituary "A little rain makes so many beautiful flowers." Miguel's philosophy in life that expresses his faith and complete trust in God. A philosophy in life that he shared with his wife, Lola, to live a simple life but with a positive and purposeful outlook in life. A peaceful, happy and holy transition from physical life to eternal life happened at 8:02am on December 2, 2016 to Miguel Martinez Ruiz. It occurred at his residence while his wife and grandson, Mikey, were holding his hand to help him with his journey into the loving and waiting arms of his eternal Father. "I'll be there when the last teardrops fall down." A line from a song Miguel taught his favorite grandson, Baba. In this line we can feel a strong assurance of love, support, affection and protection for all those he loved dearly. Miguel was barely 20 years old when he joined the U.S. Army. He served in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Miguel dutifully served his country. He earned a good number of medals, including the Bronze Star Medal and Good Conduct Award. After 30 years in the Army, he continued to serve his country as a logistics officer for 10 years at JBLM, earning an exemplary work record of 40 years in the government service. Miguel was a man of few words but with a heart full of so much love. He showed his love through his actions and decisions. How can you not fall in love with a man who would patiently wait for the first bloom of the smallest flower, Lily of the Valley, to give to his wife? A simple act of love with so much meaning nobody can ignore, but appreciate. Miguel was a whole package of God's love and creation. With his almost 87 years, (born on Valentine's Day) he faithfully served his country and his family. He is survived by his wife, Esperanza "Lola"; his son, Peter (Nancy), who retired from the Coast Guard as a Petty Officer; his daughter, Katy (Kurt); step-children, Yvette, Vance, Egbert, Earl and Jennifer; his grandchildren, Angela, Michael, Mikhaella and Baba; his siblings, Ramon (deceased), Angel Luis, Pedro Jaime, Juan Jose, William, Gilbert, George, Carmen Santa, Monserrat-Linda and Ana Marie Bilim; his extended families of nephews and nieces, Magaly - the closest to his heart, Linda, Madielyn and others. Our heartfelt thanks to all who helped and joined us in prayers from Miguel. Special thanks to Fr. Mike of St. Charles Borromeo Church, who after he officiated our marriage vows, became a great steward of God to guide us to our healthy and happy married life. Fr. Mike, whose name he loved to mention even in his death bed. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 9, 2016 at 9:00am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 7112 S 12th St, Tacoma, WA. Burial will be at New Tacoma Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.