Ruben David Nava

Feb 4, 1946 — Aug 25, 2026

Ponte Vedra Beach

Listen to Obituary

Ruben David Nava, 80, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, passed away on August 25, 2026.

Ruben was born on February 4, 1946, in the Bronx, New York, to Dolores “Lita” (Suarez) Nava and Eloy “Wello” Nava. He grew up in the Bronx and later in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, alongside his older brother, Eloy.

Ruben earned his MBA from the University of Miami and went on to build an accomplished career spanning four decades as a partner with Deloitte, working in both the New York and Los Angeles offices.

On July 10, 1976, Ruben married Maryanne Lacko. Together, they built a life centered around family, first in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and later in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, before retiring to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

Ruben was the proud father of Ryan Nava (Laura) and Janis Grella (John). But perhaps his favorite role was that of “Papa” to his five grandchildren: Madison (16), Harper (14), Sawyer (13), Jordan (9) and Jackson (7). His family was a source of tremendous pride throughout his life.

After retirement, Ruben remained active in his community, serving in various positions on the boards of Sawgrass Country Club and volunteering at the Porsche Museum. He was also a generous supporter of causes close to his heart, including City of Hope, Wounded Warrior Project, and Habitat for Humanity.

Ruben had many passions and pursued them enthusiastically. He loved golf and fishing, was a lifelong New York Yankees fan, and had a deep appreciation for Porsche automobiles. He enjoyed traveling and the experiences and memories that came with seeing new places. Those who knew him also knew that keeping up with the news, particularly Fox News, was very much a part of his daily routine.

Ruben was preceded in death by his parents, Dolores and Eloy Nava. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Maryanne; his children, Ryan and Janis; their spouses, Laura and John; his five beloved grandchildren, Madison, Harper, Sawyer, Jordan, and Jackson; his brother, Eloy; and the many family members and friends whose lives he touched throughout his 80 years.

Ruben leaves behind a life defined by family, hard work, generosity, and the many things he loved. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

To plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our tree store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Sunday, August 30, 2026

4:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)

Quinn Shalz Funeral Home and Cremation Centre

3600 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

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Mass

Monday, August 31, 2026

Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)

Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church

545 A1A N, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

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