Ruben Duran, a dedicated husband, father and friend and respected community member, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, in Espanola, New Mexico. Born on August 23, 1938, in Coquimatlan Colima, Mexico, Ruben led a life defined by hard work, generosity, and profound love for his family.

Ruben honorably served in the Mexican Navy before embarking on a career that would span three decades with Local Union 652 in California. His unwavering work ethic, patience, and kindness earned him a promotion to foreman despite English being his second language. His leadership was marked by genuine care for his colleagues, an ability to teach with patience, and a notable generosity of spirit. Ruben was widely respected and well-liked in his role, qualities that became the foundation of his professional legacy.

In his personal life, Ruben and his beloved wife Elsie shared 47 years of marriage after their union in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Together, they retired to Espanola, where they enjoyed traveling in their RV, dancing, dining out, and nurturing a rich social life surrounded by family and friends. Ruben was an excellent storyteller and had a deep love for music, particularly from the 70s and 80s, as well as Spanish tunes, which he enjoyed playing from his record collection. Ruben was a man of strong values; he and his family were dedicated Christians and attended Pojoaque Bible Church for many years. His keen sense of style often made him the best-dressed person in any room, reflecting his pride and care in presentation.

Ruben’s family was his greatest accomplishment. He treasured the time spent with his wife, children and grandchildren. Alongside Elsie, they transformed their modest beginnings into a life of love, dedication and partnership to one another. He took great pride in instilling a strong work ethic not only in his children but also in his grandchildren, setting an example by his own actions and principles.

Warm memories of Ruben abound among his family and friends. His love and generosity will truly be missed.

Ruben is survived by his daughter Naomi Duran-Flynn (William Joseph Flynn), son Ruben Duran Jr., stepdaughter Donna McNevin (Dan McNevin), stepson Glen Vigil (Cindy Vigil), grandchildren Suzzette Velazquez (Rene Velazquez), Jacqueline Medina (Robert Medina), Michael Vincent Iten (Nubia Sachz), Doniel McNevin, Desirae McNevin, Estevan Vigil (Amber Vigil), Jessica Scott (Collin Scott), Rebecca Vigil, Steven Vigil Jr. (Vanessa Vigil), and Desirae Vigil, sisters Leonor Cobian Ramos, Martha Cobian Ramos, María Luisa Cobian Ramos, María de los Ángeles Cobian Ramos, Felix Cobian Ramos, Sara Cobian Ramos, María de Jesús Cobian Ramos, numerous great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces as well as many additional family members and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elsie Duran, his parents Pasqual and Rosa Cobian, and stepson Steve E. Vigil.

In honor of Ruben’s remarkable life, a Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm Thursday May 7, 2026, at Rivera Family Funerals & Cremations of Espanola, located at 305 Calle Salazar, Espanola, NM 87532. Ruben will then be laid to rest alongside his beloved Elsie at Light House Cemetery in Chimayo, New Mexico.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Vincent Iten, Rene Velazquez, Robert Medina, Dan McNevin, Estevan Vigil, and Steven Vigil.

Ruben Duran’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and integrity. His enduring impact on his family, his colleagues, and his community will be remembered with great respect and affection.