Ruben Mamba Sarenas

Ruben Mamba Sarenas, born on December 31, 1933, in Cabanatuan City, Philippines, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 6, 2022, at the age of 88. He resided in West Hills, CA at the time of his passing. Ruben is survived by his oldest daughter, Leonila, youngest son, Antonio, grandchildren Ruben, Chiara, and Antonio, and great grandpets Momo-Chan, Dexter, Oliver, and Stitch. Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills, California.


Ruben was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was married to Catalina for almost 68 years, July 12, 2022, would have been their 68th wedding anniversary. Together they had three children, Leonila, Ruben Jr., and Antonio. Sadly, Ruben Jr. passed away in 2002 at the young age of 45. He worked in Marinduque and overseas in Saudi Arabia to be able to provide the best life possible for his family. Ruben was an outstanding bowler and was a part of several teams that won championships in their leagues. Later, in 1990 he emigrated to the United States to finally be able to spend his twilight years and time together with his family.


To many, he was known as "Mang Ruben" and to those closest to him, he was "Tatay". He was well loved by anyone that got to know him. Though a man of few words, his actions always spoke louder than anything he could say. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone that was in need. No task was too big or too small for Tatay. If he was able to do it, he would be willing to help. From driving his grandchildren around, buying takeout food for his super picky granddaughter to make sure she ate dinner, changing the oil in our cars, to helping people fix their homes with simple DIY projects. He never said no and never complained.


He enjoyed spending his time watching basketball, and boxing. His favorite team was the Los Angeles Lakers, and his favorite boxer was Manny Pacquiao with accolades also going out to Joe Louis, Mike Tyson, Marvin Hagler, and Muhammad Ali. Tatay's version of babysitting was having his grandchildren sit down with him and rewatch old boxing matches together.


He loved his dog, Honey who he spent all his time with daily until she passed away. He would hand feed her, dress her up, and she always slept with him at night. They had 10 wonderful years together. Honey loved Tatay as much as he loved her. Shortly after Honey passed, his granddaughter started bringing around her dog, Momo-Chan to help cheer him up. He loved watching Momo-Chan play with her toys, and especially loved feeding her snacks. During the last few months of his life, when he was especially sick, Momo-Chan kept him company and brightened even his darkest days.


Ruben was truly loved by many and is greatly missed. Though he is no longer with us physically, we know he is always with us.


Ruben will be honored with a viewing on Tuesday, 04.19.2022 at the Faith Chapel, Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills from 9am to 4pm. His final celebration of life will be on Wednesday, 04.20.2022 at Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills Old North Church at 2:30pm. Reception will be held directly after the funeral, details to follow.


Monetary donations can be made electronically or in-person during the service. Floral donations can be sent to Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills on the day of the viewing, please reference Ruben Sarenas Case # 2I4622. For additional information, please contact Chiara Sarenas or Tony Sarenas.


The Sarenas family wishes to thank each and everyone of you for your condolences, prayers, and thoughts during this difficult time.