Enrique Harry Ruelas, 61 years old, passed away at his lovely Stockton home on May 23, 2020 with his beloved dog, Sky, standing by his side. He was born February 7, 1959 to Hank and Vera Ruelas in Flushing, NY. Enrique graduated Washington High School in Fremont in 1977. He initially attended San Jose State University, but later transferred to California State University of the East Bay where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and his Teaching Credential. Enrique is survived by his parents Hank and Vera Ruelas, younger sister Sonia and brother-in-law Ken Thomas, his Aunt Natalie Lake , Uncle Don Lake, ( predeceased) cousin Miranda Thompson, husband Drew Thompson and their son Sawyer, Kochan Family, Julian Hinojoza and Family, the Muela and Ochoa Family.
At the beginning of his career he worked in the computer industry but found that it was not his calling. At this time, Sonia was teaching elementary school and he became interested in teaching after hearing her stories and experiences with her students. He wanted to make a difference, and he realized that teaching would be his path. With the encouragement of his parents he went back to the University to attain his BA in Liberal Arts and his Teaching Credential at CSEB. He was honored with the Fulbright Scholarship for a chance to study abroad for an academic year. He was interested in studying and observing successful teaching methods and modalities.
Enrique became a dedicated 5th grade teacher in 2001 at San Joaquin Elementary in Stockton, CA
He always got excited when he discussed his students’ learning and achievements. He augmented their education with the philosophy of life, music, current events, civics, problem solving and of course humor. He also started a math club where students could learn higher level math such as algebra. With his calm and gentle demeanor, he listened to their questions and worked to support their challenges, fears, and weaknesses. He fostered good behavior and respect for both classmates and others. He fostered a love for learning and a thirst for knowledge and he worked to provide the tools to help them on their way in life. He loved his students and they loved him. He was often visited by his former students. Teaching was his passion and each individual student mattered.
Childhood times were reminiscent of many activities with family and friends. Enrique picked up the game of tennis very easily. He was a star high school tennis player, team captain and voted most valuable player. He continued competing later in life as well. There were many trips skiing, hiking, backpacking, fishing and swimming up at Mt. Shasta in Lake Siskiyou. He loved music, and he enjoyed playing his harmonicas, while his best friend Mike would play the guitar.

Family was important to Enrique. Harry admired and respected his parents. He was very grateful for his sister and brother-in-law. He and his family loved to discuss current events, philosophy and each others’ interests at the dinner table while enjoying Mom’s favorite recipes, which he loved. These were good times being together. There were holiday gatherings and visits with grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, cousins from the Kochan, Ruelas, Hinojoza, Muela, and Ochoa families.
Enrique loved learning, and he was a positive soul with a beautiful smile. Because he liked exploring ideas and investigating common beliefs, he read many books and listened to many lectures in order to develop and hone his core beliefs. A problem was always looked at as an opportunity to learn and reflect about what was most important in life. He believed in looking at the future with a positive outlook. He had a kind heart, gentle soul, and a passion for living a meaningful life.
Enrique, you did good. You will always be missed. May God Bless you.

Enrique had a love of animals and donated to the Stockton Animal Shelter.