Ruben Edward Garcia, 48, of Rapid City, passed away on September 9, 2017.

Ruben was born at EAFB in South Dakota, to Adolph and Darlene Garcia on February 15, 1969.

Ruben was a strong, hardworking man, he was proud of all the work he accomplished throughout South Dakota. Some of his work included the revitalizing of the town of Deadwood in 1989, the construction of the Rushmore Holiday Inn, in Rapid City, and most recently, the reconstruction of Mt. Roosevelt with his brother in-law.

Ruben enjoyed exploring the Black Hills and the Bad Lands. He loved sharing his stories about all of his adventures.

Ruben’s brutal honesty and unique laughter will truly be missed.

Ruben is survived by two daughters, AmandaSue of Michigan and Tawny Begay with one grandson, Isaiah Begay of Iowa, two sisters, Stella and LeoNora Garcia, and mother Darlene Garcia, all of Rapid City. Also, many friends and relatives who loved Ruben dearly. Ruben is preceded in death by his father, Adolph Garcia, brother Michael Garcia, and sister Theresa Garcia.

“Voices, a thousand, thousand, voices

Whispering, the time has passed for choices

Golden days are passing over

I can’t seem to see you

Although my eyes are open wide

But I know I will see you once more

Leaving, I hate to see you cry

Grieving, I hate to say goodbye

Dust and ash forever

Though I know we must be parted

As sure as the stars in the sky

I’m going to see when it comes to glory

I was down, but now I’m flying

Straight across, but now I’m flying

Straight across the great divide

And I’ll see you, I’ll see you on the other side”

-Ian Kilmister