Francisco Joel Ruiz Latorre, 40, passed quietly from this life on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 in UPMC Harrisburg Hospital.  Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, the son of Francisco A. and Margarita (Latorre) Ruiz, he settled in Harrisburg before moving to New Cumberland over 10 years ago.

            Francisco was employed as an automobile mechanic by several local repair garages in the Harrisburg area for many years, while building his reputation as a reliable mechanic.  He loved racing cars and worked on and assisted in building race cars.

            Francisco was preceded in death by a brother, Alex Omar Ruiz Latorre.  Survivors include his wife of many years, Elizabeth Cruz; his mother, Margarita Latorre of Erie; children, Joelis Ruiz Cruz, Elder Joel Ruiz Cruz and Brayan Joel Ruiz Cruz all of New Cumberland.  Also surviving are siblings, Yasira M. Ruiz Latorre, Ana Ivette Ruiz Latorre, Miguel Angel Ruiz Latorre, Michelle Ruiz Latorre and Roberto Ruiz Latorre.

            A Funeral Service will be celebrated in Hall & Stone Funeral Home, 112 North Harrisburg Street, Steelton, on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at 12Noon with the Rev. Michelle officiating.  Interment will follow in Rolling Green Cemetery, Camp Hill.  Visitation is Tuesday 10AM until 12 Noon.