Ruben “Chief” Pelkey

Ruben Pelkey Sr., age 74, of Avondale, Arizona died on December 12th, 2019 in Goodyear, Arizona.  He was born on March 4th, 1945 to his loving mother, Amilia Baldreas.

Ruben grew up in Banning, California with his mom, siblings and his uncle who helped raise him. Ruben went to Banning High School and was best friends with Dino Villarreal. Dino accidentally introduced Ruben to his big sister Consuelo, who would eventually become his wife. It was anything but love at first sight when the two were growing up. Consuelo had no interest in Ruben at first because at the time she was taller than him. Ruben was able to eventually win Consuelo over with his kind heart and the two became high school sweethearts. Ruben and Consuelo would ultimately marry on July 17th, 1965 and shared 57 beautiful years together.

Over the course of their marriage, Ruben and Consuelo would have six beautiful children. Ruben was the “chief” of his tribe and his children loved and respected him, unconditionally. He was an excellent father who believed that you showed love to your family all of the time and would do anything to “make it right” when one of his kids was upset.

Ruben loved to play baseball and was a member of “The Vagos,” with his best friend Dino as the team manager. He also loved to dance and would often take Consuelo out on dates, just so he could show off his dance moves. Ruben was an excellent fisherman and cook. His BBQ’s were famous throughout his group of friends. His Tri-tip and carne asada would have friends and family running to his house.

One of Ruben’s greatest accomplishments was when he quit smoking. Ruben used to smoke two packs of cigarettes a day but after reflecting on his family and how much they meant to him, he began the difficult journey of quitting smoking. His choice to go through this difficult journey just showed how much he loved his family.

Ruben is survived by “his pretty pretty,” loving wife Consuelo Pelkey, three daughters; Lucinda Powers (Bill), Caroline Ferreia (Mark) and Amy Knopp. Two sons; Ruben Pelkey Jr. (Marslina), and Daniel Pelkey (Cynthia). Sisters; Liz Arrerla, Lorrine Mendoza, and Elisa Garcia, brother Jesse Mendez, uncle Nieves Baldres, thirteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by Doreen Rodriquez, Gabriella Ferreria, Joe Baldreas, Pauline Aveliva, and Amilia Baldreas.