Ruben Bautista-Santiago, age 25, of Burgaw passed from his earthly life to his eternal rest on Saturday, September 1, 2012 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born March 17, 1987 in San Pedro, Yososcua, Oaxaca, Mexico and was the son of Lucas Martin Bautista Santiago and Justina Santiago Salazar. Surviving in addition to his parents are his sisters, Araceli Bautista Santiago and Marisela Bautista Santiago; brother, Austin Bautista Santiago; grandmother, Ramira Gouzman Lopez; and many additional family and friends who dearly loved Ruben.

Prior to his illness Ruben worked as an auto body technician at Jeff Gordon Chevrolet in Wilmington.

Being musically gifted Ruben enjoyed dancing, composing music and singing. Ruben loved his family above all else. His joyful spirit, bright smile and zest for life will always be treasured and remembered.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening 6 to 8:00 p.m. at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw.

Graveside funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at Riverview Memorial Park with Father Alex Gonzalez officiating.

Condolences and shared memories may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening 6 to 8:00 p.m. at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw.

Graveside funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at Riverview Memorial Park with Father Alex Gonzalez officiating.