On Sunday, March 26, family and friends gathered to unveil a memorial banner in honor of Ruben Acevedo at Ken Hubbs Memorial Little League Park’s center field.
A lifetime resident of Colton, Ruben Acevedo was a prominent fixture in Colton youth baseball for over two decades (from 1966-1986) as a Little League coach and an umpire.
Acevedo was inducted into Colton's Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
As a coach, Acevedo’s All-Star teams played in five district championships.
In 1980, Acevedo established Colton’s Umpire Association and was appointed Umpire-in-Chief for Colton’s Little League District 21 in 1981.
In 1983, Ruben represented the City of Colton as an umpire at the Western Regional Championship in San Bernardino.
“When my father passed, we asked friends and family of the community to donate to Ken Hubbs in his memory,” said Brenda Lopez, daughter of Acevedo. “After his services, we were contacted by the president of Ken Hubbs, thanking us for the donations and gave permission to put up the banner in my father’s memory... It’s very special to all of us, this was our second home.”
“Ruben Acevedo was an umpire when I was in Little League, it was special for us to celebrate him,” said President of Ken Hubbs Little League, John Oloteo. “We would like to thank the family for their generous donations and support.”
Up to 70 people gathered for this event in memory of Acevedo and his legacy. The celebration was filled with family, friends, food, and fun.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Ken Hubbs Little League and the City of Colton, and a special thanks to everyone who attended, it was a proud day for all,” said Lopez.