Lionel Baldenegro Ruiz

ELOY - Lionel Baldenegro Ruiz, 77, of Eloy, a longtime grocer, died at home on Dec. 31, 2018, with his wife and family by his side.

Mr. Ruiz was born on Nov. 19, 1941, in Eloy to Jesus Ruiz and Carmen Baldenegro. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed playing golf, fishing, hunting and camping.

He worked in the grocery business for 40 years and was an owner and operator of Food Town in Eloy for 29 years. He received the Good Neighbor of the Year award from the Eloy Chamber of Commerce.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Gloria Montijo Ruiz; two sons, Richard and Rudy Ruiz of Eloy; seven siblings, Jesus Ruiz of Eloy, Joe Ruiz of Casa Grande, Ernesto Ruiz of Tucson, Alfred Ruiz of Santa Maria, California, Isabel Rivas of Casa Grande, Alice Quintero of Eloy and Eleanor Vanderslice of Casa Grande; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Fernando Ruiz.

Visitation beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at St. Helen of the Cross Catholic Church, with rosary recited at 10. Funeral Mass celebrated at 10:30. Burial in Eloy Memorial Park.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Valley Chapel in charge of arrangements.