Grace (Graciela) Saldana Ruiz, 87, passed peacefully surrounded by her family on November 17, 2024, at her home in Park Forest, Illinois. She was born on March 4, 1937, in Kingsville, Texas, to Guadalupe Rios Saldana and Sofia Gonzalez Saldana.Grace married the love of her life, Juan Valentine Ruiz, and together they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage before his passing. Out of their union, they were blessed with five children. Grace was a devoted member of Christ Church of Victory in Joliet, Illinois, and her life was marked by an unwavering faith and love for her family.Grace had a deep passion for sewing, which she discovered as a young girl, and she loved making wedding dresses. Her creativity extended beyond sewing—she was exceptionally crafty, often able to make something beautiful out of very little. Her love for cooking was another defining characteristic, always sharing meals and warmth with those around her.A dedicated worker, Grace spent time at Kimble Glass and touched many lives with her kindness and generosity. She loved her grandchildren above all else and found immense joy in her growing family.Grace was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Juan Ruiz; two sons, Reverend Juan V. Ruiz Jr. and Henry Ruiz; one sister, Francis Saldana Peña; three brothers, Guadalupe Saldana Jr., Roel Saldana and Eloy Saldana; and one grandson, Jason Isiah Ruiz.She is survived by one son, Jerry Ruiz (Anita); two daughters, Norma Winer (Sam) and Noelia Ruiz; 15 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She is also remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many others whose lives she touched with love.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ Church of Victory, 2399 Gaylord Rd., Joliet, IL 60435.Grace's love, wisdom, and kindness will be forever cherished by her family and all who knew her.