Julio Cesar Ruiz of Orem, UT passed away at home at age 35 on January 2, 2023. He was born September 12, 1987 in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico. He was the fifth of six children born to Victor Manuel Ruiz Rios and Jacqueline Martinez Ruiz, both now living in Orem, UT. His parents were truly diligent as they cared for him. Julio is survived by his parents and siblings (spouses in parentheses): Victor Hugo (Sharla) Ruiz of Tucson, AZ; Carolina (Isidro) Ramirez of Eagle Mountain, UT; Miguel (Kristin) Ruiz of Layton, UT; Jacqueline (Jared) Beltran of Orem, UT; and Abraham (Kelsey) Ruiz of Orem, UT. He has 17 living nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Julio lived in Chihuahua until 1998 when he and his family moved to Orem. He studied at Tímpanogos High School and especially appreciated his seminary teachers. His help with his parent's business was especially needed for many years. He was a service missionary at the Bishop's storehouse in May 2012-2014 for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He worked faithfully at Deseret Industries for years.

Due to complications during birth, learning challenges were part of his struggles along with autism. In December 1998, Julio was diagnosed with epilepsy.

He and his family are very grateful for the assistance of the doctors and professionals who supported him in his health. There was a great outpouring of love, support, and service of family and friends throughout his life.

He was kind and forgiving. His contagious laugh could make anyone smile. Each day, he fought to make the best of his circumstances and impressed others with his physical, emotional, and spiritual strength, despite heavy opposition. Family, board games, and movies (including those by Cantinflas who inspired some of his verbal humor) brought him joy, and satisfaction.

He loved watching his nieces and nephews play outside. Music was important to him (especially by Elvis Presley, The Beach Boys, classic Rock, and Banda Machos). Playing and organizing sports (especially basketball and racquetball) made life much more enjoyable for him. Good food and delicious drinks were also things he really enjoyed.

Julio will be greatly missed by many friends and family. He is free from his chronic health challenges and able to enjoy the friends and family who are joyful to see him now that he has passed away.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, January 7, 2023, 11 am in the Windsor 8th Ward, 1505 North Timberwolf Trail, Orem. Family and friends may visit that morning from 9:45 - 10:30 am at the church. Interment will be in the Orem City Cemetery. For those unable to attend, a webcast of the service will be available at www.walkersanderson.com/webcast