Maureen Arthur Ruben

Maureen Arthur Ruben, beloved wife of the late Aaron Ruben passed away peacefully in her home on June 15, 2022. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Catherine and David Arthur and her brother John Arthur. She is survived by her devoted brothers, David Arthur (Marsha) and Gerald Arthur, sister in law Elaine Arthur, her stepson Tom Ruben, and nieces Kristin (Mike) Fanella, Allison Arthur, Tara (Manny) Espinoza and nephew David (Christine) Arthur, grandniece and nephews Miranda, Mickey, Luke Orin, Ethan, and Antonio, and many friends.

Maureen was born in San Jose, California and grew up in St. Louis, Missouri where she began her career singing on television, radio, and on the stage. While attending Northwestern University, majoring in Theater, she won a national talent contest and moved to New York City. She was perhaps best known for portraying Hedy La Rue in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” on Broadway, the national touring company, and in the movie version with Robert Morse. Her great reviews for “How to Succeed” were followed by starring roles, in “The Love God” with Don Knotts, and “How to Commit Marriage” with Bob Hope and Jackie Gleason. After several more movies, Maureen headed back again to Broadway for “ Something Different”, a play written and directed by Carl Reiner. When the play closed she returned to Los Angeles to marry Producer/ Writer/ Creator Aaron Ruben whose successful TV shows included “The Andy Griffith Show’, ‘’Sanford and Son’’, ‘’Gomer Pyle” and “CPO Sharkey”. Continuing her career Maureen received rave reviews for her portrayal of Adelaide in “Guys and Dolls” at the Ahmanson Theater opposite Milton Berle.

Maureen was a multitalented performer who won numerous awards for her singing and acting. She had great comedic timing and worked with many of the comedy giants in the entertainment industry. Her list of credits on stage, movies, and television is impressive, but Maureen’s true calling was her love of children, particularly those in need of special care. Her commitment, to Variety, The Children’s Charity began when her father, President of the St. Louis Variety Club, invited her back to St. Louis to appear on their telethon. That was the beginning of many decades of tireless effort to raise awareness and funding to help children in need. She was recognized as “The First Lady of Variety Telethons”. Maureen dedicated her life to working for Variety, hosting telethons and fundraising galas. Nothing in her successful entertainment career “compared to the joy of a special needs child walking for the first time into her open arms’’. Alongside her dear friend, Monty Hall, Maureen was a tireless advocate for children in need. As a former President of Variety of Southern California and as an International Ambassador for Variety, she helped raise millions of dollars to help children in need.

Maureen was a unique individual who brought love and laughter to everyone she met. Her absence will be felt by all who knew and loved her.

Maureen’s family also wishes to express our appreciation to her loving and devoted caregivers Priscilla, Nasiyem, and Nurlely. You brightened her final years with love and exceptional care.

We appreciate your devotion to Maureen.