On February 22, 2022, the heavens opened to welcome Ramiro “Ronnie” DeRueda Jr., age 57, of Elgin, IL, fully into the presence of God and the loved ones that he missed while on earth.

The loss of Ronnie will impact all who knew him in every capacity. He was an only son, beloved brother, cherished uncle, loving cousin, nephew, friend, and mentor to many near and far.

Ronnie loved to sing. He loved his music from Floyd to Yanni, Gypsy Kings to his oldies, and shared that love with everyone. He was passionate about jewelry (diamonds, gemstones, and precious metals). He created and redefined what many knew the Billiard world to be by developing "Cueology" and shared his wealth of knowledge.

He was a genius in both crafts from watch repairs to cue repairs. No job was too big or too small. He loved his work.

Ronnie was born on January 2, 1965 in Elgin, IL to his loving parents, Ramiro De Rueda Sr. and Corina Cortez. He attended St. Mary's Catholic elementary school where he shared his talent as a magician often. He went on to graduate from St. Edward High School, Class of 1983, where he played a little football and started his vocal tenor performances.

He was detailed in telling his stories of travel around the world pertaining to cue sticks and international billiard shows. It was as if you were experiencing it for yourself. Those are unforgettable moments for everyone, and these stories will continue to preserve his legacy.

When Ronnie sang and performed, he wore his heart on his sleeve. A few of his favorite vocals were from Elvis Presley to Roy Orbison, but he sang as if he was the 4th Bee Gee at all times.

A few of many phrases that shaped his life were the following:

"Those who try and fail are much wiser than those who never try for fear of failure."

"Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people.”

“Learn to let go of the things you fear to lose.”

“Pulling someone down will never help you reach the top.”

“The wise will admire you, the wishful will envy you, the weak will hate you. This is the reality for those who dare to be epic.”

Ronnie was preceded in death by his Hero and father, Ramiro DeRueda Sr; grandmother, Maria D. Ramos; grandfather, Ricardo Cortez Sr; and grandmother, Hermila E. Cortez.

He is survived by his resilient mother, Corina C. DeRueda; sisters, Andrea M. (Joe L. Martinez) DeRueda-Martinez, and Corina "Corrie" A. DeRueda; his one and only nephew, Jacob A. Martinez; and by many loved and cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ronnie's spirit will continue to live in his passions for his family, his trades, and his life's work for years to come without end.

"And I am not frightened of dying, Any time will do, I don't mind. Why should I be frighten of dying? There's no reason for it, you've gotta go sometime.”
~ The Great Gig in the Sky~

A Celebration of Life service will be held from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, with funeral service at 6:30pm, Friday, March 11, 2022 at Discovery Church, 200 Prairie Street, Elgin, IL 60120.

Interment will be private.

Do not let your hearts be troubled. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." John 14:1-3

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128 or visit www.symondsmadison.com.