Thomas Ruiz Blanco, aged 76, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on the morning of April 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with liver cancer. Born on December 26, 1948, in Fresno, CA, to John and Nettie Blanco, Thomas grew up in the communities of Mendota and Firebaugh, CA. He attended Tranquillity High School and later served in the United States Army, completing two tours in Vietnam with the 34th Engineer Delta Co.

Upon returning from service, Thomas pursued higher education at West Hill Community College in Coalinga, CA, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, with a particular fondness for mathematics. He was a man of many talents, knowledgeable in plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, auto/diesel mechanics, and welding. Thomas successfully owned and operated his trucking company from 1980 until his retirement in 2008.

Thomas was a devoted husband to his wife, Rita, for 46 years, and a loving father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Rita Blanco, son Thomas Ruiz Blanco, Jr., daughter-in-law Misty Gatte-Blanco, daughter Gina Blanco, grandchildren Dillon, Cody, Riley, and Brooke, and great-grandson Kepena. He is also survived by his brother John Blanco, sister-in-law Eleanor Ramirez-Blanco, sister Ruth Lopez, brother-in-law Joe Lopez, sister-in-law Mary Blanco, and goddaughters Felicia, Juliana, Stephanie, Chloe, and Torrance. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nettie Blanco, and his brother Peter Blanco.

Thomas enjoyed traveling to various Indian casinos in Northern California and Las Vegas, and was an avid fan of the Golden State Warriors and the Kansas City Chiefs. He also loved watching Western movies and Asian cooking shows.

While our hearts mourn the loss of Thomas, we take comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. His family extends a special thank you to Esther, his home health nurse, and his niece Analicia for their care and support.