It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Rueben Arthur Maldonado. Born on June 16,1947, to Minnie Benita Chavez and Rueben Jose Maldonado of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Rueben went home to his Heavenly Father on June 28, 2026.

Rueben is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sharon Maldonado, his two brothers, David and Robert Maldonado, and his children: Rena, Randette, Rueben, Josh, Jake, and Nicole. He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Rueben was a soul like no other. He served for three years in Vietnam on a naval ship and continued to serve his community upon his return by sharing love, humor, and kindness with everyone he met. His greatest joy in life was bringing a smile to someone’s face; whether a lifelong friend or a stranger, he had a joke ready for every occasion. He truly cared about making a connection with people, bringing joy to others’ lives, and blessing anyone he could.

Heaven has grown brighter as one of the world’s brightest lights has gone home and is now resting.