Ruben passed away from COVID-19, another casualty in this terrible pandemic. He was a true gentleman and a tireless fighter for working men and women. He served the United Auto Workers (UAW) tirelessly for decades. Starting at the GM Fisher Body Plant 2 in Flint, Michigan, Ruben quickly rose through the UAW ranks, serving as a committee person, executive board member and director of Region 1C. He was also always focused on family and community. Where he wanted to make sure everyone had an opportunity to be their best self.

Ruben knew the true meaning of life was teamwork and togetherness. Together we can change communities. Together we can impact the lives of all backgrounds. Together we can leverage more of our financial resources. Together we can simply be better humans.

“I want everyone to know my family and I are doing well. As Ruben aged, we were not naive to this moment in time, we just never imagined it would be like this,” said Tony Burks, BLUE HAWK Vice President of Business Development and grandson (raised by Ruben). “As we mourn the loss of the patriarch of our family, I am taking comfort in his favorite gesture, the ‘thumbs-up’. He would always give the thumbs-up as a sign that things were all good. He would encourage us to face difficult situations with positivity and enthusiasm, then give the thumbs-up.”

As we move forward through this challenging time in the world, remember those who love us, taught us, mentored us, lent a hand or shoulder when we needed it. We are in this together and it is that teamwork and togetherness that will get us through this unprecedented time.

In Loving Memory of Ruben Burks, former UAW Secretary-Treasurer, a visionary man with a passion for equal rights and social justice for all!