Robert C. "Bob" Ruiz, age 94, died in the early morning hour around 2:25 am on Sunday October 29, 2023. He was born on August 4, 1929 to the late Elsie Brown Ruiz.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Betty Mehaffey Ruiz; and 2 brothers, William and Burkley.

Bob is survived by his sons, Robert Charles, Jr., and Gregg Stuart Ruiz (Keitha); grandson, Matthew Graham Ruiz; great granddaughter, Shepherd Graceynn Ruiz.

Bob served his country in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Korea and spent his time in the 8063rd M.A.S.H. unit. Following his return, he was employed by the N.C. Board of Health in Raleigh, and later employed by the V.A. Medical Center in Asheville where he retired after 26 years as an X-Ray technician. After his retirement from the V.A., he became part of the Older Americans Program with the U.S. Forest Service.

He loved and cherished his family and always put others' needs first. He was an avid photographer and bird watcher; he loved to feed the squirrels….not.

Although he will be deeply missed, he is now reunited with his wonderful wife of 65 years.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday November 4, 2023, in Oteen Baptist Church, 37 Oteen Church Road, Asheville. Reverends Joe Steadman, and James Lamb will officiate. His burial will be held at a later date in the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, Bob would like donations made to the Manna Food Bank, 627 Swannanoa River Rd., Asheville, NC 28805.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org.