January 30, 1975 - March 2, 2026
Ruben Valdez, 51, of Fremont, Nebraska, passed away on March 2, 2026. He was born January 30, 1975, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Antonio Valdez and Geraldine Valdez.Ruben grew up in Sioux City, Iowa, where he formed many lifelong friendships, including with his best friend, Jason Hunter, whom he met in the second grade. His first job was at Pizza Hut, where many of those friendships began. Ruben spent much of his career working in the food and beverage service industry, where his outgoing personality and love for people made him a natural in hospitality. He later worked in Omaha, Nebraska. Ruben loved to travel and explore new places, but San Francisco held a special place in his heart, and he often said he left a piece of himself there.
He was preceded in death by his father, Antonio Valdez; his sister, Victoria; his brother, Antonio Valdez; and his niece, Felicia LeAnne.
Survivors include his mother, Geraldine Valdez; siblings Maria Aida Valdez, Yolanda Alanis (Isidro), Consuelo Valdez (Dusty Irvin), Victor Valdez, Silas Bui, Aisa Bui, and Lyriko Antonio Valdez; nieces Ashley, Britney, Chynna, Payton, San Juanita, Margarita, Salustia, Lucero, and Dahlia; nephews Alex, Sage, Brock, Peter, Diego, and Paul; his lifelong friend Jason Hunter (Jennifer); and many extended family members and friends.
Ruben will be remembered for his warmth, laughter, and the love he shared with those around him. He had a lifelong love of oceans, lakes, and seaside landscapes, and he gave people the rare gift of being present - showing up for their occasions and allowing them to empty their hearts with him.
Celebration of life will be held at Buffalo Alice in Sioux City, IA on April 11, 2026 at 11AM-2PM.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(1)
Yolanda Renee Alanis
Kenosha, WI Wednesday, March 4, 2026 My little brother Ruben was a gift in my life. As his older sister, I often felt protective of him, but the truth is that Ruben took care of all of us in his own way. He brought laughter when we needed it most, reminded us not to take life too seriously, and loved people with his whole heart.Ruben had a way of showing up for people. Whether it was for a celebration, a hard moment, or just to sit and talk, he made space for others to be themselves and to share what was in their hearts. That was his gift.
I will always remember his laughter, his singing, and the way he made ordinary moments feel special. Losing him leaves a space that cannot be filled, but I am grateful that out of all the sisters in the world, I was chosen to be his.
I will carry his memory, his joy, and his love with me always. Rest peacefully, little brother. You will always be loved and never forgotten.