Chico "Ruben" Caldera

Chico “Ruben” Caldera, 73, of Cuba, passed away suddenly on Sunday, June 30, 2024, in St. Clair.

On May 1, 1951, Chico was born to the union of Manuel Caldera and Counsuelo (Alvarez) in Bridgeport, Nebraska.

Chico attended grade school and High School in Nebraska. He would later attend college in Brownsville, Texas.

Chico served his country in the Vietnam War as being part of the United States Army from 1972-1975.

He was a proud member of the Harley Hog Chapter through Gateway Harley-Davidson.

On April 8, 2022, Chico was united in marriage to Connie (Eiskant) in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Chico loved riding Harley’s and the sense of freedom it gave him being out on the open road. When he wasn’t riding the hog, Chico could be found in the workshop building useful things such as cabinets, benches and cedar chests. He also tackled larger buildings like campers, dune buggies and trailers. In his younger years he enjoyed cycling and playing racquetball. Most of all, Chico loved spending time with his family and friends. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel Caldera and Counsuelo Alvarez; one brother, Leo Lopez; four sisters, Theresa Laborico, Socorro (Lopez), Bertha Escamilla and Rosemary; nephews, Zefe Laborico III, Manuel Hernandez, Juan Hernandez and George Hernandez.

Chico is survived by his loving wife, Connie Caldera of Cuba; two sons, Carlos Caldera and fiancé Riane Patterson of Lees Summit and Daniel Caldera and wife Katie of Affton; four grandchildren, Milo Caldera, Morgan Caldera, Joel Caldera and Margo Caldera; brother-in-law, Zefe Laborico II of Oklahoma; nephews, Ernie, Henry, Bobby, David and Robby; other relatives and many friends.

A memorial visitation will be held Monday, July 8, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. with a memorial service beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Mizell Funeral Home, Cuba.

Graveside Service with military honors will take place at 12:30 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Memorial Donations are appreciated to the:

Disabled American Veterans

P.O. Box 14301 Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301

Arrangements under the compassionate care of Mizell Funeral Home, Cuba.