Ruben Mejia Garcia Sr. departed this life on June 17, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Enya, son Ruben Jr. (Jan), daughter Enya, daughter Liza, sister Bernice (Maximiano) and grandson Alejandro Jonathan.
Ruben was born on February 21, 1934 in Pangasinan, Philippines, and grew up in the city of Davao, located in the southern island of Mindanao. An easy life did not lie ahead. As young boy, he endured the horrors of World War II. He was resourceful and brave, however, and these childhood traits were to resurface throughout his life. It was also at this time that he discovered his aptitude for languages: he learned how to speak Japanese fluently, and would master multiple languages as an adult.
Ruben graduated from the University of the Philippines, where he met his wife, and where they both began their teaching careers. In 1968, Ruben was blacklisted after he publicly protested the declaration of Philippine martial law; consequently, he and his family immigrated to the United States. Blessed with unflinching determination and Pinoy smarts, he studied many a night and passed the NY State bar exam.
Ruben held numerous positions while located in Rochester, NY and Manhattan: Assistant District Attorney, Administrative Law Judge, Hearing Examiner, Support Magistrate. He was also a licensed NYS Professional Boxing Judge. During his career and beyond, Ruben was bestowed with recognition; most recently, he was awarded the 2023 Pioneer of Leadership award by the Rochester City Council.
Throughout his life, Ruben exemplified true strength by overcoming adversity without complaint. He displayed his keen intellect during long after-dinner discussions, punctuated with his observant and infectious sense of humor; one could learn much (and laugh all the more) in his company.
Above all, many will remember Ruben's willingness to devote his time and assistance to anyone in need. And while his tireless efforts made a profound and enduring impact on numerous lives, Ruben expected nothing in return for his service to others: he simply rewarded himself by singing along with Frank and Ella on quiet afternoons.
We celebrate his life by stoking a fierce sense of humor, we honor his legacy by doing good deeds and we cherish his memory by being kind to one another.
Rest well, Ruben.