Ricardo Bernard DeSouza

Rick went to be with the Lord on November 20, 2024, while at his residence.

Rick was born in Georgetown, Guyana, to Bernadette and Michael D’Souza. In 1980, he immigrated with the family to New York and grew up in the Bronx. Rick displayed remarkable talent as a graffiti artist and became infamously known by his tag name, “Ruel.” With his inherent sense of rhythm and energetic nature, Rick emerged as a well-known and admired force of nature in the hip hop dance community.

When he turned 18, Rick moved to Spring Hill, Florida. He capitalized on his athleticism and teaching skills to become a successful entrepreneur, launching several kickboxing and mixed martial arts studios. He coordinated amateur kickboxing fights and personally trained family and clients – including an MMA fighter who fought in the UFC – on karate and kickboxing.

Rick also had a passion for visual arts. He designed logos, sketched drawings, and created unique paintings that colorfully filled rooms until he sold them.

Of all his loves, Rick considered his mother and daughter “his heart.” He was a trusting and charismatic man who easily made friends, but they were and will always be his world.

Rick is preceded in death by his daughter Rulie. He is survived by both parents, younger brothers Vittorio and Ray, and younger sister Nadya.

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