Deacon Ruben Cordero died Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at the age of 75.

Deacon Ruben was born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1949. He married his long-time companion Maria on December 19, 1970, and had two daughters, Gabriela and Valeria, and a granddaughter, Dana.

He was the youngest child of Paulino and Genoveva and had a sibling, Emilia. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States for the American dream, which he obtained with hard work and dedication. His most significant work was enhancing the Las Vegas casinos, but his most meaningful work was working as a business manager at Guardian Angel Church in Pacoima.

Deacon Ruben was ordained as a deacon in June of 2005 for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and served for 16 years at Guardian Angel Church until his retirement, when he became a senior deacon. He spent the rest of his life serving at St Elisabeth of Hungary Church in Van Nuys, where he was welcomed and embraced with love and kindness. He also felt at home at and loved by the community of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Sunland, where he had the honor to serve when necessary.

As a deacon, Ruben was most appreciated for his charisma, friendliness, and services, especially for his homilies that touched people and challenged them to be better. He was described as unforgettable, and a father figure to many.

Service information: 

Viewing: Thursday, February 8, 2024, 7 p.m., at St. Elisabeth Church, 14655 Kittridge St., Van Nuys, CA 91405

Funeral Mass: Friday, February 9, 2024, 10 a.m., at St. Elisabeth Church

Internment: Following the funeral Mass, at Fernando Mission Hills Catholic Cemetery, 11160 Stranwood Ave., Mission Hills, CA 91345.

Priests and deacons wishing to attend are invited to vest in an alb and white stole.

Condolences may be sent to: Maria Elena Cordero at 17211 McKeever St., Granada Hills, CA  91344.

In charity and kindness, please remember Maria Elena and the entire Cordero family in your Masses and prayers.