Paul P. Ruiz

February 8th, 1949- September 2nd 2018

Paul Ruiz, loving husband, father, and "Tata" was born in Ballinger, Texas on February 8, 1949. After his father's passing at the age of 7 years old, his family of 7 children and his mother who he cherished, moved to Bakersfield, Ca, where he attended Foothill High School. He was employed by the Kern High School District, until his retirement in 2011. After his retirement, he enjoyed hobbies, such as his love for hunting, fishing, and being in the outdoors. His first love though, was his wife Jo Anne, who he called "Jo",or "Joseph." He loved spending time with her, and during Basketball season, they'd watch every NBA game that came on Television together; they rooted for The Golden State Warriors. He also enjoyed trips to the casino, and going to his grandchildren's sporting events, watching them play baseball, swimming, track, and color guard.Whenever they went out somewhere, he’d say to her, ”Wherever we go, people always look at me like they think they know me from somewhere, or else they think I’m famous!” She of course would laugh and go along with it. He was "Tata" to all of us, he was and always will be our dark skinned, snow white mustached, camouflage-wearing, fun, but sometimes painfully honest Tata. One thing our Tata did was make a delicious batch of Chile, often with chili’s that he grew in his backyard. It was spicy but so flavorful, he was always proud of it, and we all loved it. At Thanksgiving, he loved being apart of the turkey cooking process and would deep pit turkeys alongside other family and friends. At Christmas, our family tradition is to make dozens of Tamales, and he played a vital role. Along with making us laugh while we spread Masa on each leaf, or helping cook the meat, and assemble the tamales, he danced and sang all night long, joking with us, making the process so much fun. He loved making conversation with those he's known for a long time, and also those he had just met for the first time. Anyone who met him, never forgot who he was, mostly because they remembered how much he made them laugh. His humor was sometimes raw, and at times, shocking, but definitely unforgettable. Whether he rubbed his belly in front of you or flipped you off, he would do something that would leave you jaw dropped! We will cherish his stories of growing up, and the trials that made him who he was; a devoted, wonderful man who loved his family deeply. On the morning of September 1st, opening day of Dove Season, our Tata had an accident, and September 2nd, surrounded by his family, Tata went home to Jesus at dusk, the closing time of Dove Season for the day. We love you Tata.

Paul is preceded in death by his brothers Ernie, Albert, and Fidel, sister Tommie, and dog Mia. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Jo Anne; two daughters Gina Diaz (Edward), and Angie Rimer (Colins); five grandchildren Greg Diaz (Aimee), Alyssa Burt (Bradley), Chris Diaz, Niquelette and Gabrielle Rimer; three great grandchildren Elijah, Isabella, and Adrienne Diaz; and he is holding in his arms Sadie Burt until her arrival in February; his brothers Pete, Clyde, and sisters Lupe, and Dollie; and numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and acquaintances.

Private Visitation will take place on Thursday September 13th, 2018 from 5:00-9:00 pm at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary at 9101 Kern Canyon Rd, Bakersfield, CA.

Funeral Services will take place on Friday September 14th, 2018 at 2:00 pm at the same location.

A reception following the service on Friday will take place at Village Grill at 2805 F St. Bakersfield, CA.

We would like to say a special thank you to the ICU Nurse at Memorial Hospital, Tammy, for tending to our Tata with great care, and for being compassionate, and honest with the whole family.

The family would also like to welcome anyone attending the service Friday to speak and share any thoughts or memories of Paul as they wish.