Maria Elena Ruiz Rodriguez

Maria Elena Ruiz Rodriguez was born on August 23, 1945 to Mariana Librada Cortez Mendez and Gregorio Ruiz Vidales in Aguanato, Michoacan, Mexico. Maria Elena passed away surrounded by family and friends on September 3, 2023 in Merced, California.

She had a long and full life surrounded by family. She enjoyed family traditions that brought her family together to their family home.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband (Bernardino Rodriguez), and three siblings. She is survived by five siblings and a multitude of cousins, tias, tios, nieces, and nephews that she cherished her memories about throughout her life. Her pride and joy were her children Arturo (Chris), Ruben, Bernardo, Maricela, Juan (Elizabeth), Leticia, Fernando, and Maria (Ciro). She always asked about them and wanted to gather with everyone as often as possible. Her favorite visitors were her grandchildren (32) and great grandchildren (16). She will be missed by anyone who knew her.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 4-7 at Stratford Evans Funeral Home followed by the Rosary at 7:00 pm. Her funeral mass will be Friday, September 22, 2023 at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Church, Merced followed by the burial at Calvary Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratfordevansfunerals.com for the Ruiz Rodriguez family.