Ruben Baltazar Garcia

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ruben Baltazar Garcia Jr., of Vienna, Virginia, who died unexpectedly on June 30, 2024, at the age of 59 while visiting Rochester, New York. Ruben is survived by his loving wife, Jan; his cherished son, Alejandro Johnathan (“AJ”); his mother, Enya of Raleigh, North Carolina; his sisters, Enya (“Dolly”) of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Liza of Austin, Texas; as well as extended family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his father, Ruben Garcia, Esq., who passed away just days before him.

Known affectionately as “Rubus” to some and “Benjie” to others, Ruben will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, distinguished military service, lifelong pursuit of excellence, generous mentorship, and warm sense of humor.

Born in Manila, Philippines, Ruben immigrated to the United States as a young child. He was raised in Rochester, New York, where he developed many of the interests and values that shaped his life. He earned a full Army ROTC scholarship to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management while fulfilling his ROTC commitment and Airborne training. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army Signal Corps.

Ruben proudly served his country in both the active Army and Army Reserve as a member of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. During his military career, he graduated from the U.S. Army Ranger School and Air Assault School and served with the 401st Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne) and the U.S. Army Rangers. His service included deployments supporting combat operations in Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, as well as the NATO Implementation Force (IFOR) peacekeeping mission in Bosnia. He attained the rank of Captain before receiving an honorable discharge in 2002.

Outside of his military service, Ruben enjoyed a successful civilian career spanning more than three decades first as a federal employee and then transitioning to a government contractor where he supported information technology systems integration, domestic and international facility construction projects, as well as federal government classified operations. A lifelong learner, he earned his MBA in Cybersecurity from Northcentral University at the age of 50.

Above all else, Ruben’s greatest pride and joy was his family and home. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 19 years and a loving father. Ruben and Jan worked jointly to care for, enhance, and maintain their home, yard and backyard fish pond for their family, guests and neighbors. He also treasured every opportunity to share his knowledge, experiences, and many passions with AJ, from history, football (Miami Dolphins) and hockey, to cars. Ruben joined the local Cub Scouts Pack 1139 in Vienna with his son and then moved to Troop 987 as an Assistant Scoutmaster as AJ grew; and took satisfaction helping young scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Additionally, he delighted in caring for the family’s beloved dog and could often be seen walking her through the neighborhood.

Known for his many interests, Ruben was an avid hockey player since his youth and remained an active player in Northern Virginia Fairfax Ice Arena with more than 1,400 games to his credit. He enjoyed music, playing the saxophone with the Vienna Volunteer Community Band in the last several years of his life, was a lifetime member of the NRA and enjoyed practicing marksmanship, and sharing his favorite movies through memorable quotes and uncanny impersonations that brought laughter to family and friends alike.

Those who knew Ruben will remember his ready smile, generous spirit, unwavering integrity, and ability to share stories with those around him. He approached every challenge with determination and lived by a personal motto that guided him throughout his life: “Always strive for excellence.”

Ruben’s legacy of service, leadership, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was laid to rest with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to his honorable service and steadfast dedication to his country. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.

The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time.