Mario Ruano

Mario W. Ruano passed away at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady on Tuesday, November 13th after fighting illness for many months. Born of Mario Ruano Sr. and Emma Valle Ruano in 1953, Mario is survived by his three daughters: Melissa Ruano, Jessica Gorton, and Georgianna Marigliano; his siblings: Sofía Odette Ruano, Emma Ruano Palma, Edda Evelyn Ruano Schillinger, and José Ruano; and his seven nieces and nephews. He was also blessed with five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Mario was from Santa Tecla, El Salvador, and came to the United States in 1970. He resided in New York for the duration of his life, proudly becoming a citizen of the country in 2017. Mario attended the State University of New York at Albany and the State University of New York at Oneonta where he made numerous friends for life. As a member of the Edward Eldred Potter Club, Mario quickly became a friend and brother to many and his time at college had a tremendous impact on him, leaving him with memories that he cherished throughout his whole life. During his time in school he was able to pursue his other great love-soccer. Mario was a talented athlete and enjoyed being on his college soccer team. After his time playing the sport was over, he enjoyed rooting for Manchester United, his favorite team. Mario was an employee of New York State for over 20 years, working in both the Department of Health and the Department of Education. Mario loved his work but loved his coworkers more. He made many lifelong friendships throughout those years, and he always valued his friends as some of his most important assets. He had a way of brightening up a room when he walked in, whether it was through his infectious smile or him cracking an off-color joke at someone’s expense. People were drawn to his energy, and he effortlessly made a lasting impression on everyone he met. Another great love of Mario’s was music; he loved both to listen to it and play it. Mario followed the Grateful Dead around the state and beyond, enjoying both the music and the friendly crowds. He was also a talented musician and played the drums with multiple bands throughout the years. His favorite genre to play was classic rock, though he also loved playing the drums in his church band during Sunday mass. Music was one of Mario’s many loves in life, and he loved to use it as a way to connect with others around him. Mario’s family would like to thank all of his friends throughout the years who loved him as we did. Those who know Mario know that he was more than just a man; he was a bright spirit who changed your life from the second he became a part of it. He will be tremendously missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. Funeral services will be held Monday morning 11:30 A.M. at Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Americas 273 Central Ave. Albany, N.Y. Relatives and friends are invited and may also call at the church Monday morning after 9 A.M.. Interment to follow at Our lady of Angels Cemetery Colonie, N.Y.

Mario Ruano

July 31, 1953 - November 13, 2018