Ruben M. Barron's Obituary
Weslaco / Hidalgo – Ruben M. Barron, 97, entered eternal rest at his home in Hidalgo on Thursday, September 4, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1927, to Mariano Valenzuela and Cecilia Barron in Mexico.
Ruben married the love of his life, Elena Guerrero, and together they migrated to the United States with the dream of raising their children and giving them greater opportunities. Side by side, they worked tirelessly in agriculture, quickly earning a reputation for their meticulous work ethic. Their journey took them across the country—from Utah to Colorado to Iowa—where they enjoyed the outdoors, the friendships they made, and the blessings of their labor. Despite living modestly, Ruben and Elena were known for their generosity, always finding ways to help others in need. Their marriage was a shining example of faith, hard work, and unconditional love.
In time, the Barron's settled permanently in Weslaco, Texas. Strong and physically fit, Ruben—affectionately known as “Mario”—found steady work in road construction. His strength and determination often surpassed men half his age, and his efforts left a lasting mark on the community’s infrastructure.
Ruben’s faith was central to his life. A devout Catholic, he devoted his time, talents, and resources to his church and community. His prayer life was rich and steady, and he spent countless hours lifting his family, friends, and neighbors in prayer.
Outside of work and service, Ruben’s joy was his family. He cherished family trips, helping Elena in the yard, and spending evenings boxing or playing dominoes. Above all, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a steady provider, leading by example and teaching his family to work hard, love deeply, and care for others with compassion.
Ruben is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elena; his parents, Mariano Valenzuela and Cecilia Barron; sons, Simon Martinez (infant) and Ramiro Martinez (Hiram); and siblings, Maria Luisa Isais, Irene Valenzuela, Manuela Valenzuela, Maurido Valenzuela, Itilberto Valenzuela, Arturo Valenzuela, and Mariano Valenzuela.
He is survived by his daughters, Teresa Lefkowitz (Neil) and Paulina Martinez (Juan†); his son, Ramon Martinez (Elizabeth); grandchildren, Perla Prieto (Nico), Ericka Prieto, Edith Allen (Matthew), David Prieto (Liliana), Rosa Martinez Loera (Eliazar), Veronica Martinez Loera (Hector), Monica Martinez Loera (Victor), Ramon Martinez Loera (Sara), Alondra Martinez Torres, Laura Vera (Rolando), and Oscar Martinez; as well as great-grandchildren, Ludwig Saint Fleur, Claire, Emily, and Gaby Allen, Samantha, Karol, and David Prieto Jr., Alexis and Emiliano Rangel, Gabriella and Gizeh Briones, Angel, Mauricio, and Camila Briones, Christian Aguilar, Bruno Rodriguez, Tadeo, Joshua, and Auden Martinez, Angel Daniel and Cielo Vera, Aitana and Oscar Santiago Martinez; great-great-grandchildren, Natalia and Zariel Briones; and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry on his legacy.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 5, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a Holy Rosary at 7 p.m. Chapel services will take place Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 2 p.m. at McCaleb Funeral Home. Ruben will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife at Ebony Grove Cemetery in Mercedes.
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