The Tidehaven community is heartbroken after the tragic passing of Ricky Rubio, a 2024 graduate and beloved former athlete who was only 20 years old.
News of Ricky Rubio’s death spread quickly on November 30, 2025, leaving family, friends, teammates, and coaches searching for ways to process the unimaginable loss.
The Tidehaven Athletic Booster Club shared the sad announcement on social media, writing with heavy hearts:
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Ricky Rubio, Tidehaven Class of 2024, whose life was tragically cut short at just 20 years old. There are no words that can ease the pain of such an unimaginable loss. Ricky was a bright young man whose presence, kindness, and spirit touched so many in our community.”
Via Facebook
Ricky, whose full name was Enrique Rubio, was born to Lupe Moreno Rodriguez and grew up alongside three siblings.
He graduated from Tidehaven High School in 2024, leaving a lasting mark on both the football field and the baseball diamond.
He played shortstop for Tidehaven Varsity Baseball and running back for the Tigers Varsity Football team, always bringing energy, heart, and an infectious confidence that lifted everyone around him.
After high school, Ricky started working as an electrical lineworker (also known as a powerline technician), a demanding job that showed the same work ethic he displayed on the field.
Coaches and teammates remember him as someone who could calm nerves with a single sentence.
Before one big game that had the staff worried, Ricky looked at his coaches and said,
“Coach, don’t worry about it, we about to bully these boys.” They went on to win in a blowout. That was Ricky, quietly confident, fiercely loyal, and always ready to lead.
Former teammate Le’Darion Stone posted a touching tribute:
“11/30/25… F.A.F.O. And You Really Meant It! I enjoyed covering you during your high school career. Everyone in your community will remember you. This year the Tidehaven football team will finish the job that you and your class started. Roll Tide Forever. Long Live Ricky Rubio.”
Via Facebook
Coach David Lucio added:
“We are broken hearted over this here at the Tide. Our community lost a great young man. Prayers for him and his family.”
Via Facebook
Read More-: Beloved Former Resurrection Catholic Soccer Player and Assistant Coach Hunter Torjusen Passes Away at 26
Family members and close friends have expressed their grief online
Carmen Diaz wrote through tears that she had just buried her own nephew and now the Lord had called Ricky home too, ending with
“You will be greatly missed mijo… may God keep my sobrinos in His hands always.”
Via Facebook
Maria-Yamel Irizarry asked the entire Bay City area to pray for Lupe Moreno Rodriguez and the family, remembering how proudly Ricky’s younger brother, who is handicapped, would cheer for him from behind the fence at baseball games.
To help the family during this devastating time, two support funds have been created:
A GoFundMe (organized by Amie Collins) to cover funeral expenses and immediate needs.
The page reads: “No family should have to bear both grief and financial stress alone.” Even sharing the link or keeping the family in prayer helps.
Additionally, A Meal Train (set up by family member Jerika Flores with permission from Ricky’s mom) so friends and neighbors can deliver meals in the coming weeks.
Jerika wrote,
“The gift of a prepared meal is one of the most practical and heartfelt ways we can offer comfort right now.”
Via Meal Train
Ricky Rubio’s death has reminded everyone in Tidehaven just how fragile life is.
A young man who had only just started his adult life, full of dreams, hard work, and love for his family and teammates, is gone far too soon.
Yet the stories pouring in show that his impact will last forever.
Rest in peace, Ricky. The Tigers will carry you with them every time they take the field. Long live Ricky Rubio.
