Ruben Moreno

Ruben Moreno was born on June 25, 1956, in Belen, New Mexico, to Trinidad and Mary Silva Moreno. He passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by the family who loved him.

To his siblings, nieces, and nephews, Ruben was a deeply good man and a quiet constant in his family: kind, loyal, observant, and proud. Although he never asked for attention, his presence was always profoundly felt.

The ninth of twelve children, he grew up in a tight-knit Catholic family and shared in the work, humor, and traditions that shaped his lifelong love for sports and the outdoors. In school, Ruben's natural athletic ability stood out. He lettered in football, baseball, and track at Belen High School before graduating in 1974.

In 1975, Ruben enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, beginning a chapter that would shape him for the rest of his life. He completed tours overseas in Okinawa and Korea and advanced through several meritorious promotions, a rare distinction earned only through exceptional performance. Ruben excelled in both legal work and combat-support roles, an unusual combination that spoke to his intelligence and versatility.

He was also an extraordinarily gifted marksman. Competing in Marine Corps and Far East Division matches, he earned the Bronze Medal in Pistol Competition (Far East Division Matches) at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, and contributed to multiple team victories. The commanding officer of the 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division, later issued a Meritorious Mast recognizing Ruben's superior performance and the professionalism he brought to the Marine Corps.

After his military service, Ruben continued his education at New Mexico State University, where he studied forestry. He also spent more than 20 years working for the Village of Los Lunas, where he was known for his quiet professionalism, strong work ethic, and dependability. His work supported vital municipal operations, including his work in the water division. He was respected by colleagues and community members alike.

Ruben was a humble and soft-spoken man who enjoyed sports throughout his life. He later played baseball in city leagues and coached Little League teams throughout Valencia County. An avid huntsman and fisherman, he found peace and camaraderie in the outdoors and took great pride in passing that love on to younger generations.

Ruben was preceded in death by his parents, Trinidad and Mary Silva Moreno; his maternal grandparents, Adriano and Demecia Silva; his paternal grandparents, Trinidad Moreno Sr. and Angela Santoya Moreno; his sisters, Theresa Fajardo and Demecia Gallegos; his brother, Mario Moreno; and his brothers-in-law, Rey Gallegos, Phillip Peralta, David Fajardo, and James Garley; as well as his nephew, Reyes Moreno, and his niece, Jennifer Villanueva and nephew, Gabriel Moreno.

He is survived by his brothers, Pete Moreno (Sally), Manuel Moreno (Barbara), Mike Moreno, and Jude Moreno; and his sisters, Rosie Garley, Angela Peralta, Erlinda Villanueva (Freddie), and Priscilla Barela (Jerry). Ruben was a cherished uncle to his many nieces and nephews, who will hold onto memories of his quiet humor, gentle pride, and unfailing rootedness

Services for Ruben will be held on Friday, January 30, 2025, at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church. A visitation will take place at 9:00 am, followed by a rosary at 9:30 am. A mass will be recited at 10:00 am. Ruben will then be placed to rest at the Our Lady of Belen Memorial Garden immediately following the mass.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ruben Moreno, please visit our floral store.