MTA Bus Mourns Former Depot Vice Chair who was "Gentle Soul"

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JULY 10, 2026—MTA Bus is mourning the recent loss of Jose Luis “Jalapeno” Ruiz, a former Vice Chairman of the Yonkers Depot.

Just 54, Ruiz passed on June 25 after a 2 ½ year battle with colon cancer. He retired in April 2024 after 28 years of service and only after his illness reached stage 4.

“He was well known to all as Jalapeño because even in the middle of a snowstorm he would come in his short sleeve uniform claiming he was hot, saying he was a jalapeño,” remembered current Yonkers Depot Vice Chair Marcos Soler.

Ruiz was also a line trainer and snow truck trainer in his last four years on the job, with Soler estimating he trained 90% of the current drivers in the depot.

“He was a gentle soul,” said Soler. “Always came in good spirits, always left his personal issues at the car, always walked in with a smile.”

According to his obituary, Ruiz is survived by his wife, Vivian, and children Ariel, Aries, Alina, Matthew, David, Andrew, McKenzie and Miranda; three grandchildren, and many other beloved family members, friends and co-workers.

Ruiz made a positive impact on all he encountered in his 28 years with MTA Bus and Local 100. “Between management, the union and membership, I never heard anyone have an issue with him,” said Soler.

A celebration of Jose's life will be held on Saturday, July 11, from 1:00 to 3:30 PM at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 East Main Street, Port Jervis, NY.

Reflections from family members will Immediately follow from 3:30 to 4:00 PM. Ruiz’s family invites all in attendance to wear something blue in honor of his brave fight with colon cancer.

Ruiz will be greatly missed by all who knew him.