Ana Ruano

 In Loving Memory of Ana Ruano August 25, 1949 – October 6, 2025

Ana Ruano, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on October 6, 2025, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Born on August 25, 1949, in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Ana lived a life filled with joy, warmth, and a fierce determination that inspired those around her.

She proudly dedicated over 40 years to the Federal Government, where her exceptional professionalism earned her various achievement awards and recognition from the Institute Director of OD from the National Institutes of Health for her excellence in the workplace. Her career was a reflection of her strong work ethic and commitment to making a difference.

Ana was not only a career woman but also the life of every gathering. She had a passion for family and friends, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Fond memories of Ana bring to mind school plays and field trips she eagerly attended with her children, as well as countless family moments filled with laughter and love. On snowy days, she would make hot chocolate with marshmallows for everyone after playing outside, filling the house with warmth and comfort. Her home was always filled with music — a reflection of her joyful spirit and love for creating happiness wherever she was. Holidays were especially magical in her presence; she loved hosting family get-togethers and parties, and her signature turkey at Thanksgiving was a culinary highlight that everyone eagerly anticipated each year. Ana had a remarkable ability to make every birthday feel special, a testament to her big heart and desire for family unity.

As the eldest of three siblings, Ana was a devoted and loving sister who always supported her siblings, Victor and Lety, in every way possible, offering guidance, love, and a helping hand whenever it was needed, and with whom she shared a bond that transcended distance. Known to everyone affectionately as “Tía Ana,” she shared her warmth far beyond her family circle. Ana grew closest to the Lord in her final years. Every weekend she faithfully attended her daughter's and son's services at their churches. She rejoiced as she sang and danced freely during the praise and worship time. The children at church looked forward to seeing her after every service, knowing she always carried her bag of candies ready to share with them — a simple, joyful gesture that captured her generous and loving spirit.

Ana’s vibrant personality shone through in everything she did. She always had music playing in her car, with her collection of CDs ready for every mood. She loved to sing along and dance to all kinds of music, filling every space she entered with rhythm and joy. She also found peace and happiness in the simple moments — walking around the lake near her home, greeting neighbors with her signature smile, and building friendships in her Zumba classes, which she never missed. Her love for movement, music, and people reflected the lighthearted, energetic spirit that made her so special.

Ana is survived by her loving children, Susan and Carlos, her son-in-law Juan, her daughter-in-law Alba, and her cherished grandchildren: Kiki, Yvanna, Joshi, Adrianna, Gino, and Carlitos, whose lives were deeply enriched by her limitless love and guidance. Each of them carries a piece of her legacy.

Though Ana has departed from this earthly life, her impact reverberates through her family and friends, who remember her as a pioneer for her loved ones, inspiring them to strive for greatness just as she did. She now reunites with her beloved mother, Rigoberta Girón Gómez, and stepfather, Gilberto Girón, who will surely welcome her with open arms.

Ana Ruano will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved. Her laughter, love, and light have left an indelible mark on the lives she touched, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.