Funeral Service Details

Visitation
Friday, June 5, 2026
11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Hilgenfeld Mortuary Chapel
Anaheim, California

Funeral Service
Friday, June 5, 2026
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hilgenfeld Mortuary Chapel
Anaheim, California

Graveside Service
Friday, June 5, 2026
1:30 p.m.
Loma Vista Memorial Park
Fullerton, California

Celebration of Life
Ruben was born in El Paso, Texas on Aug. 18, 1959 to David & Irene Melendez. He is survived by his wife Rita Melendez and 3 sons: Ruben Jr., Matthew and Bernabe (Benny). He has 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. His brothers are Roberto “Bobby” & Mark. Ruben is preceded in death by his parents & brothers: David Jr., George, Javier & Charlie. The Melendez family moved to Fullerton in 1961. He attended Maple School, Ladera Vista Jr. High & FUHS. Ruben excelled in Pop Warner football and also wrestled varsity at 128 lbs. at FUHS. His favorite teams were the LA Dodgers, LV Raiders & LA Lakers.
Ruben had many friends and was exceedingly personable & jovial. He met Rita Adame around 1978. They fell in love and later married. They raised their 3 boys in La Habra. He coached on his sons’ Pop Warner football teams and signed up them to play Little League. Ruben was employed for 10 years at Laura Scudders and later became a Building Sign Installer for many years.
His alcohol issues led to a marital separation. He moved back to Fullerton; became a caregiver to both his mother and brother, George who had polio - until they both passed.
Ruben developed a neurological disorder called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). It began to affect his activities of daily living. It increasingly worsened leading to his demise on Aug 8, 2026 where he was surrounded by his family.