For the record, here's an obituary report:

Buena Vista Social Club pianist dies

Reuters in Havana
Tuesday December 9, 2003
The Guardian

Cuban pianist Ruben Gonzalez, who gained fame playing for the Buena Vista Social Club, died at home in Havana yesterday, his wife, Eneida Lima, said. He had been suffering from severe arthritis, as well as lung and kidney ailments.

Gonzalez, 84, gained international attention in his twilight years as part of the Buena Vista project organised by the American guitarist Ry Cooder. The project revived the long-forgotten Cuban style of music known as "son".

The Buena Vista Social Club leader, Compay Segundo, also died this year.