07/31/2025
Ruben Jesus Duarte
Dec. 24,1961 - July 25, 2025
Ruben Jesus Duarte, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, passed away unexpectedly on July 25, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona after battling a brief illness.
Ruben was born and raised in Superior, Arizona to Ruben and Mary Jessie Duarte. He is preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Ruby Maldonado and Anita Groves. Ruben is survived by his wife Christine (Castaneda) Duarte, his children Anthony Castaneda (Candace), Erica Duarte, Desiree Angel (Levi), Adrienne Benson (Matthew), 13 grandchildren, brother Dr. Fred Duarte (April), sisters Martha Guzman, Dolores Groves, and Andrea Kipp (Matt) and numerous nephews and nieces and many family members.
Ruben devoted his life to family, service and community. He retired honorably after 26 years as a Sergeant with the Arizona Department of Corrections, where his leadership and commitment left a lasting impact on generations of correctional personnel. His dedication to public safety continued as a GITTEM (Gang Intelligence) Officer with the Gila County Sheriff's Office.
Ruben graduated from Superior High School in 1980. He remained a proud and loyal Superior Panther, as a way of life. In high school, he excelled in football and track, but his passion was wrestling. Ruben also shared his passion for mentorship and youth development as a wrestling coach for the Globe Tigers for over 31-years. He guided and inspired countless young athletes with discipline, heart, and encouragement. He was never prouder than when his wrestlers were successful, his crowning achievement as a coach came with State Championship Gold Medals.
He briefly worked for Globe Public Schools and was most recently serving as the Property and Evidence Manager for the City of Globe Police Department, where he continued to demonstrate the integrity and strong work ethic that defined his career.
Ruben was committed to his Catholic Faith and was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus. He was known for his unwavering work ethic, his commitment to service, and for his good nature and sense of humor. He had a gift for making others smile and for building lifelong friendships.
Above all, Ruben was a devoted family man. He and Christine built a life full of love, laughter and a deep connection. Raising four children and cherishing 13 grandchildren, who he sincerely adored. He had a way of making each grandchild feel special. They will one day cherish those memories with "Tata". Ruben was that guy in the stands at all the kids' games, concerts, recitals and school activities. When we don't see his face in the stands, look up he's always close by.
Ruben will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He will be mourned forever by those who love him. His legacy of service, strength, love, and humor will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. We Love you and May You Rest In Peace.
Until We Meet Again........
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Miami, AZ 85539. Visitation will be 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Rosary will be at 9:30 a.m., Funeral Mass will start at 10:00 a.m. and the Burial will be at Globe Cemetery.
