Leopoldo Ruiz, Jr., 85, of New Britain, CT, beloved husband of Olga (Santiago) Ruiz, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Autumn Lake Health Care. Known as "Leo" to many, Leopoldo was born in Comerio, Puerto Rico, and was the son of the late Leopoldo Ruiz, Sr. and Ramona (Bermudez) Ruiz. A hardworking and devoted family man, Leo dedicated his life to providing for those he loved. He was never one to sit still—often waking as early as 3 or 4 in the morning to go to work at Foodway's International. After its closure, he continued working as a landscaper, still rising before dawn and returning home late into the evening so that his family always had everything they needed. He was a proud father of four children, and his love was shown through his tireless dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to his family. Though Leo was not fluent in English, he had a gift that needed no translation: humor. He was a natural comedian who filled his home with laughter. Sometimes, without saying a word, just a look on his face could make everyone smile. He also found great joy in listening to traditional Jíbaro music, which kept him connected to his Puerto Rican roots and brought him comfort throughout his life. His joyful spirit and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Leo is survived by his children: Alma Ruiz-Kulpanowski and her husband, Jan Kulpanowski, of Wethersfield, CT; Hector L. Ruiz of Berlin, CT; Sonia I. Perez and her husband, Alberto Perez, of South Windsor, CT; and his youngest daughter, Betsey Ruiz, of Newington, CT. He also leaves behind twelve adored grandchildren: Al Jr., Steven, Gabrielle, Ryan, Melissa, Lorenzo, Alyson, Vincent, Marcelius, Tyler, Johnny, and Nyla; as well as his cherished great-grandchildren: Bianca, Deacon, Azaylea, Aliza, Autumn, and Rylee.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Autumn Lake Health Care for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Leo. Special thanks to Cara, RN, David, RN, Angela, RN, Annette, Blanca, Mari, and Luisa, just to name a few. We are deeply sorry for anyone we may have missed, and we are forever grateful to all who helped comfort and support him during his time there.

The family would also like to give special recognition and heartfelt thanks to Aracelis Paulino, who visited Leo three times a week for the past three and a half years simply to sit with him, listen, and allow him to share his stories and memories. Her dedication, warmth, and genuine care brought comfort and companionship that meant more than words can express.

Funeral services for Leo will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Lawrence O'Toole Church/Maria Reina De La Paz Parish, 494 New Britain Ave., Hartford, CT. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Relatives and friends may call at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home, 1276 Berlin Turnpike, Wethersfield, CT, on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. To share a memory of Leopoldo, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com