Ruben Perez, 87 of North Platte passed away December 7, 2020 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney.

Ruben was born on August 26, 1933 in Edinburg, TX to Anthony and Stephanie Perez. He grew up in Texas, moved and lived with another family and attended school in Chicago before moving to Nebraska with his family to work the beet and potato fields. He met Rachel Arellana and the two married on July 4, 1955.

Ruben worked for Interholzingers, the State of Nebraska, and Gutherless Sheet Metal before opening La Casita in 1962 where he and his family operated the restaurant until 2003.

He loved being an American and showed his patriotism. He was always taking care of those in need and had a kind heart. Ruben was an animal lover, with a special fondness for cats. He enjoyed operating the restaurant with his family and was very proud of his children. He liked to travel, going to Flee Markets in Colorado, and enjoyed music.

Survivors include his sons, Gary Perez of Cozad, Tony "Biggie" Perez of North Platte, and Thomas Eric (Wendy) Perez of Bellevue; daughters, Deborah Ann Heglin, Stephanie "Itsy" Bolden both of North Platte, and Kelly (Kevin) Kotarek of Wisconsin; numerous grand, great, and great-great grandchildren; and several sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rachel; son, Rubin "Andy" Perez; and two brothers, Rudy and Fino.

Memorials are suggested to the family and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at Harvest Christian Church with the Reverend Jeremy Rinke officiating. Burial will follow in the North Platte Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed on the Adams & Swanson Funeral Home Facebook page for those not able to attend. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.