RUBEN J. HOLGUIN
April 17, 1950 – January 12, 2026 (age 75)
Ruben Jessie Holguin, also known as “Mr. Fine Line,” peacefully passed on January 12, 2026 after an 8-month battle with colon cancer. Ruben was a fighter. He showed incredible strength and positivity throughout his journey- while never missing an opportunity to crack the occasional joke. He will be deeply missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Ruben was born April 17, 1950 to parents Micaela and Jesus “Jess” Holguin. He was the first of five children and raised in Tulare. He graduated from Tulare Western High School with the Class of 1968. He served his country with the United States Army from 1969 – 1971. He was first stationed in Vietnam, followed by Germany. During this time, he began writing letters to a nice girl back home who would become the love of his life.
Ruben and Jacqueline Sigala of Tulare were married on June 20, 1975. The two celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year. They enjoyed holding hands, trips to Morro Bay and watching their favorite TV show, The Twilight Zone.
As many can confirm, Ruben was best known for his flawless pinstriping work. Nicknamed “Mr. Fine Line” by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, Ruben’s work can be spotted all over the central valley. His business, Pinstriping by Ruben, spanned 51 years. During this time, he developed a distinct style, built a name for himself and formed countless friendships throughout the automotive industry.
Music played a large role in Ruben’s life. As a young man overseas, Ruben purchased vinyl records in Germany to mail back home. He also enjoyed listening to music on his 8-track player and reel to reel player. Ruben was a major Beatles fan and appreciated music of all genres. In the 1980s, Ruben played drums in a weekly jam band formed by several friends at his shop. On occasion he would also sing lead vocals.
Ruben’s pride and joy was his two-tone 1955 Chevy. It was originally owned by his parents, however he became its new owner after returning from the army. As a young couple, Ruben and Jackie would often cruise Mooney Boulevard while listening to their favorite 8-track tapes. In 2020, Ruben was thrilled to finally restore his Chevy with the help of close friends.
He is preceded in death by parents Micaela and Jess, brothers Abel, Mark and David, and sister-in-law Marie.
He is survived by his wife Jackie Holguin of Visalia, his son Rene Holguin (Denise) of Visalia, his daughter Amber Holguin Seifritz (Hollis) of Los Angeles, his sister Delia “Dede” Ahumada (Jesse) of Tulare, his two granddaughters Marissa Holguin and Kimberly Holguin, both of Visalia, and many, many close friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following organizations:
- VA Central California Health Care System
- Kaweah Health Ruth Wood Open Arms House
The family would like to thank the nurses at the Ruth Wood Open Arms House, the oncology team at the Fresno VA Medical Center and all friends and family who gave support during this difficult time.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 4-7 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Home. Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 6 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Home. Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 608 N. Church Street, Visalia, with a burial at Tulare Public Cemetery North, 4572 J Street, Tulare.