Ruben Duarte, a wrestling coach at Globe Tiger Athletics, passed away on Friday.
Ruben Duarte coached 22 years at High Desert Middle School. Later, he coached wrestling for the Globe Unified School District for over 28 years.
Leading the program within Division IV, Section III, Duarte played a significant role in shaping young athletes.
Under his guidance, the Tigers’ wrestling program competed with intensity, discipline, and sportsmanship in the Arizona Interscholastic Association.
Duarte always built kids up and was just a good man.
As per the sources, he also coached alongside John Martinez and Bruce Durbin as an assistant coach.
Moreover, he was a detention officer at the Gila County Sheriff’s Office.
On July 31, 2017, he received the Arizona Department of Public Safety Director’s Commendation for his investigative work involving the”GITTEM” Detention Liaison Officer (DLO) program.
Coach Ruben Duarte Passed Away, Leaving Everyone Devastated
A coach at Globe Tiger Athletics, Ruben Duarte, tragically lost his life on Friday, July 25, 2025. However, the cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Globe Tiger Athletics took to their official Facebook handle to announce the tragic news and mourn the loss. They wrote,
Coach Ruben Duarte passed away this morning, July 25, 2025. As Globe’s wrestling coach for many years, he always built kids up and was just a good man. Athletes loved him and parents trusted him. He will be greatly missed by our school and community. Our hearts go out to his family at this time.
Globe Tiger Athletics
Minda Matthews Salcido, an office manager and legal administrative assistant at Daisy Flores Law & Associates, also took to her Facebook handle and offered heartfelt condolences. She wrote,
So sorry to hear of the loss of Coach Duarte! He really loved coaching and mentored our kids like no other. He will be missed! Sending our condolences to the entire Duarte/Castaneda family!
Minda Matthews Salcido
Victor Arrellin, who works at Bash Brothers Contractors, wrote,
He is a great man. Known him for a long time. Always had a smile and a welcoming grin. Never made you feel unwelcome. Much love to the family and prayers to all. 🙏🙏 rest in paradise Sarge
Victor Arrellin
Other close relatives and family members have also extended their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Ruben’s family, encouraging them to stay strong during this challenging moment.
According to Ruben’s family member, Anthony N. Candace Castaneda, the funeral services will be held on August 2, 2025, in Miami, with viewing starting at 9 a.m.
Ruben will always be remembered for his contributions as a wrestling coach and detention officer. Rest in Peace, Ruben Duarte.
Ruben Duarte Is Survived By His Wife, Christine, And Two Children
Coach and detention officer, Ruben Duarte, tied the knot with Christine Castaneda Duarte on June 26, 1980.
On June 27, 2023, Christina took to her Facebook handle and wished Ruben a happy 43rd marriage anniversary. She wrote,
Happy Anniversary to this guy! Called Sarge… Thank you for everything you have given me… to include or children…Thanks for sharing this crazy journey called life with me! There are times you drive me crazy… and I’m positive there are more times I drive you crazy but regardless on what is placed in the front of us we always seem to work it out together. Happy Anniversary Sarge… I love you… today… tomorrow…. and Forever!
Christine Castaneda Duarte
According to Christine’s Facebook profile, she attended Miami High School and worked at the Miami Police Department.
She has been serving as a Lieutenant at the Gila County Sheriff’s Office.
Christine was born to her father, Abie Castaneda, and her mother, whose identity has not been revealed.
Sadly, Abie passed away on July 27, 2025, at 62. The services were held at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, located at 914 Sullivan Street, Miami.
On April 12, 2023, Christine wished Abie a happy heavenly 80th birthday.
Ruben and Christine were blessed with one son, Jordan Reardon, and one daughter, Desiree Angel.
They are currently mourning the loss of their supportive and devoted father, Ruben Duarte.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Christine’s sister, Anita Duarte Groves, attended Superior Senior High School.
- Ruben and Christine had three granddaughters: Abbie Spurgeon, Ryleigh Duarte, and Ray Spurgeon.
