Paul John Ruiz

Paul John Ruiz was born on February 1, 1930, and passed away on October 14, 2025. Paul passed away peacefully at his home with family and hospice by his side. Paul was the youngest of his 11 brothers and sister. He was also the last surviving sibling.

Paul is survived by his 4 adult children: Sallie Ruiz-Ivory, Paul Ruis Jr., David Ruiz and stepdaughter Lisa Silva Odendhal. Paul also had a son Marty Ruiz who passed away too soon in an auto accident as a teenager. Paul is also survived by many Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Cousins, nephews, nieces, in-laws as well as countless friends.

Paul was born in a Los Angeles hospital where his mother passed away shortly after his birth due to complications. This left Paul to be raised in Santa Barbara by his father and his older siblings. Growing up in Santa Barbara Paul enjoyed the beach, fishing and sports. He was a regular at the Santa Barbara Boys and Girls Club. Paul graduated from Santa Barbara High School and was a standout athlete for the Santa Barbara Don’s Football and Track Teams.

After graduating from High School, Paul enlisted in the Army where he was an artillery specialist and cook in the Korean War. After the war, Paul returned home to Santa Barbara where he tried a career at commercial fishing. Due to the inconsistent income, Paul settled on a career in construction. He eventually became a partner in the company and specialized as a Latherer.

When he was not working Paul enjoyed family and friends getting together for weekend BBQ’s. There was seldom less than 30 people in attendance. Paul he his brothers could always be found behind the grill.

Paul was also a huge Los Angeles Rams fan. He would often tell stories of the gang going down to attend a game and all the betting and comradery. Paul also loved his weekly Monday night football get togethers with his friends.

Paul was also active in the community. He was a member of the Santa Barbara Boys and Girls Club, The Elks Club and the VFW. Prior to Paul’s passing he was the oldest living alumnus of the Santa Barbara Boys and Girls Club. Paul was always willing to give back by doing janitorial work at the clubs and even helping to resurface the Santa Barbara Boys and Girls Club basketball courts. Paul was also a fixture behind the grill at the Clubs annual Fiesta Food Booths.

Later in life, due to his limited mobility, Paul would enjoy taking the long way home from his doctor appointments. Driving around Santa Barbara and pointing out all the buildings that he had worked on as a Latherer as well as all the history of the Santa Barbara area.

Paul will be missed.