Michael Dominic "Mike" Ruiz died peacefully on July 27, 2022. He was born September 21, 1958. Mike was preceded in death by his parents Norman & Judy Ruiz,  his daughter Kelly Ruiz and brother-in-law, David Veldof.

Mike is survived by his sister Teresa Veldof of Minnesota, brother Richard Ruiz of California, niece Renee Ruiz LaRosa (Chris) of California, nephew Matthew Veldof of Minnesota, great-nephews Lawrence and Lincoln LaRosa of California, grandson Tyson Garcia, and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins in California and Kansas.

Mike was born and raised in Palo Alto, California. He graduated from Henry M. Gunn Senior High School. Mike worked in mobile communications, theater management handling projection and sound, and ended his work life as a department manager of a national hardware supply store. But Mike will be remembered best as a gifted musician. He was an exceptionally talented jazz and funk drummer who won competitions and was selected for many honor jazz bands and orchestras. He also performed with several bands before becoming a popular D.J. working in San Francisco Bay Area clubs and at private events. He D.J.'d under the name, Mike Kelly.

In 2019, Mike moved to Hutchinson, Kansas. He was planning a move back to California when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in Spring 2022.

Michael will return to California for interment in a private service at Alta Mesa Memorial Park in Palo Alto.

Arrangements made by Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, Ks 67501.