Arnoldo Ruiz Pena

Arnoldo Ruiz Pena, esq., earned his wings on Friday, April 29, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving wife of 37 years.  He was a native of Benavides, TX.  Arnoldo was baptized and confirmed at an early age at Santa Rosa De Lima Catholic Church.  He was a loving, generous husband, stepfather, doting grandfather, great-grandfather, amazing friend and he was the optime of truth and justice.

Arnoldo received his education from the Benavides School System.  While in High School, one of his passions was music.  He played in a band called “The Latin Image” and prided himself in earning extra money for his performances.  Upon graduating from High School in 1971, Arnoldo immediately embarked on his higher education.  He attended Texas A & I University in Kingsville, Texas.  It was there in 1977 where he met Cristela Villagomez, the love of his life.  The two of them fell in love and married in July 1983.

Serving his country was important to Arnoldo so he joined the United States Army.   One of his favorite memories was when he was stationed in Germany.  His military occupation was Communication Specialist.  Post Army he continued his education earning a Bachelor of Science Degree and Masters Degree in Sociology.  He later attended Texas Southern University in Houston, TX, earning a Doctorates of Jurisprudence Law Degree.  He studied law to serve his community.  He never forgot his humble beginnings.  Arnoldo had a compassion for people and was very trustworthy, he had a heart of gold.   He was a champion for poor and under privileged people.  This was his calling in his life.  There was not any case to difficult or unwinnable.

Arnoldo was preceded in death by his parents, father, Guadalupe Alaniz, mother, Francisca Ruiz Alaniz, and sister, Rosalinda Alaniz and numerous other loved ones.

Arnoldo leaves to cherish his memories, the love of his life, wife, Cristela Villagomez Pena; step-daughter, Lori Alisa Price; four grandchildren, Azelea R. Bustamante, Annalise S. Bustamente, Alaina S. Bustamante, Alijah A.  Bustamente; great-granddaughter, Violet S. Winters; and siblings,  Gregorio Pena, Hilda Pena de Moreno, Guadalupe, Manuel, Narcisco and Javier Alaniz.

Please join us to celebrate his life on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.   The funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2500 Limmer Loop, Hutto, TX  78634.  (512) 759-3712.

Burial Location:  Veterans Memorial Cemetery Killeen, TX at a later date.