Ruben D. Melgoza

It is with great sadness that the family of Ruben D. Melgoza announces his passing to be with our Lord and Savior on February 14. He was born on June 30, 1942, in Brownsville to Victor and Catalina Melgoza. Ruben married the love of his life, Maria Elia Melgoza, on September 18, 1958, and they shared 67 beautiful years together.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, and one sister, his late son-in-laws, Andres Reyes Jr. and Inez Rios Jr., and one grandchild. He is survived by his wife, his three daughters, Nelda Reyes and Ruth Macias, and husband Joe and Pamela Melgoza, his sister Rosalinda Flores, his adored nephew Joel “Kenny” Melgoza and his wife Carolina, along with eight grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

 Ruben worked as a mechanic in Brewster and Terrell counties for eight years and then pursued his dream in law enforcement at Sul Ross State University as the first Hispanic chief. He also worked for the sheriff’s department and then eventually migrated to the Alpine Police Department, where he was also appointed as the first Hispanic chief of police and held that position, serving a combined 21 years of service. In 1990, he relocated to San Antonio, where he served as an officer for Edgewood ISD for 20 years as a sergeant. Aside from his respected career path, he was also a talented musician who played the saxophone and trumpet for the Rhythmaires. He had an ear for the keyboard or any instrument. Music was a big part of his passion, and even without an instrument in hand, his unique whistle would brighten up his surroundings along with his contagious laugh, smile, and sense of humor.

 His warm love and wisdom he shared will forever echo in our hearts. We will carry his legacy in our actions, his laughter in our smiles, and his love as a compass on our life’s journey. Thank you, Lord, for this man who led, loved, and believed in God and family. Thank you, Jesus Christ!

 End of watch: February 14, 2025, at 2:45 a.m.

 Visitation will take place on Wednesday, February 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Alpine Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, located at 209 W. Sul Ross Avenue. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will take place at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Alpine at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, with the funeral Mass beginning at 10 a.m.

 Services have been entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home, and gifts and condolences may be left by visiting www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com.