Ruben Salas passed away peacefully on September 26, 2023 at the age of 84 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 13, 1938 in El Paso,Texas were he grew up with his Mom and 5 brothers and sisters, before moving to Southern California, where he lived for many years. He served proudly in the United States Navy as a young man, and later worked at Rockwell International Corporation for 35 years, where he aided in manufacturing aircraft, the space industry, defense and commercial electronics, components in the automotive industry, avionics, and industrial products. At the same time he taught business courses at night at Fullerton College for several years, all while raising a family in Chino, California. Upon his retirement from Rockwell, he moved with his family across the country to Connecticut where he resided in Coventry, CT and wasted no time getting right back to work. At FedEx Ground, he worked full time in the packaging and shipping department, where in his 60s he had more endurance than men working there in their 20s. After his wife suffered a decline in health and had to go into a nursing facility in 2021, he spent every night for hours at her side, all while running errands, and still maintaining his full time job. He was a part time handy man at home as well, always fixing something or building a new gadget. He never missed a day at work and worked at FedEx for nearly 27 years, right up until his illness.
Ruben had exceptional stamina for his age. A man of great wisdom, he was always ready to lend an ear or a hand whenever needed. A Raiders fan to the core, he couldn't wait for football season every year and never missed a game. He would often tell the story of how he attended the very first season game for the Raiders in 1960, and showed his prized entry ticket proudly. He loved animals and always welcomed any dog or cat into our home with open arms. He loved spending time holding and petting them all, but it was his beloved dog Pancake that was always in his heart. Ruben's greatest love was of that for his family. From his kids to all of his grandchildren, looking forward to talking to them or spending quality time with them was always treasured, but it was the love and dedication he had for his wife, that set an amazing example.
Ruben is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years. Beverly Salas of Coventry, CT, his children, Amanda Salas of Coventry, CT, Rebecca Coleman of Wells, ME, Robert Salas of Columbia, CT, Melinda Sly of Yorba Linda, CA, and Ruben Jr. Salas of Fullerton, CA. His cherished grandchildren, Matthew Haberman, Shawn Haberman and Troy Haberman of Steve and Melinda Sly. Nathan Coleman, Samuel Coleman and Benjamin Coleman of James and Rebecca Coleman. Cailyn Salas and Everett Salas of Robert and Kelley Salas and Rosa Elena of Ruben Jr. Salas. His sister Esperanza Compard (Hopie) and his brother Richardo Salas of California. He is preceeded by his brothers, Victor Salas, and Gregory Salas, his sister, Martha Romero, and his beloved mother, Esperanza Perez. In addition to his children he leaves behind Joseph Imbeault of Fall River, MA, who for many years lived with and helped Ruben and his family.
Ruben's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you and gratitude to the team of nurses and caregivers at Windham Hospital, CT for their exceptional care of him during his final days. From the family's late hours to over night stays, they were always very compassionate. The outpouring support and kindness to us all was much needed and greatly appreciated.
Ruben touched many lives, had many wonderful friendships and was an extraordinarily caring and loving father.
He will be forever cherished and loved in the hearts of his family and friends. May he finally be at rest and his soul be at peace.
Arrangements are being made and will be announced in the future. In lieu of flowers, we would like to suggest any donations be made to the Best Friends Animal Society which he often donated to for his love of animals.
As a co-worker and a friend to Ruben at work I have always admired him and looked up for him and had nothing but respect for his work ethic. I used to be Afraid when he would yell at me for doing something wrong or trying to help but then people would tell me to turn around and he's laughing at me cause he's only joking.. Ruben has worked with so many people over the past 27 years And I am In awe at how many people loved and respected him and enjoyed his company anywhere from package handler's the QA department maintenance and housekeeping And all of the admins up front and hub managers . He will be greatly…