Mr. Ethan Matthieu Cruz Martinez

October 5, 2001 – November 1, 2026

Forever Loved, Never Forgotten 🤍🕊️

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Ethan, who left us on November 1, 2026, at the age of 25.

Born on October 5, 2001, Ethan was a cherished son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend whose life, though far too short, left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

Ethan was a thoughtful and curious young man who valued his independence and was continually learning, growing, and searching for a deeper understanding of life. He had a unique perspective on the world and a desire to better himself, qualities that those closest to him deeply admired.

He shared a special bond with his beloved dog, Luna, who was an important part of his everyday life and brought him companionship and joy.

Ethan also treasured his friendships, especially the remarkable bond he shared with his best friend of nine years, Ethan Larkins. Their friendship was built on years of shared experiences, laughter, meaningful conversations, and unwavering love and loyalty. Through the years, they grew together, supported one another, and created memories that will forever be cherished.

Faith and spirituality held a meaningful place in Ethan’s life. Baptized into the Catholic faith, Ethan later began exploring Christianity more deeply, taking a particular interest in Eastern Orthodox teachings and seeking a greater understanding of God’s love, mercy, grace, and the promise of eternal life.

Through his personal studies, handwritten reflections, and thoughtful exploration of Scripture, Ethan demonstrated a genuine curiosity about faith and life’s greatest questions. His spiritual journey was deeply personal, reflecting his desire to understand God and the meaning of His unconditional love.

Among the words Ethan left behind was a simple yet profound reminder:

“Trust God’s grace.”

His family finds comfort in those words and in the image Ethan chose for his phone’s lock screen of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, gently carrying a lost lamb in His arms.

In the Bible, Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who has one hundred sheep. When one becomes lost, the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to search for the one that has wandered away. And when he finds it, he does not punish it for becoming lost or turn away from it. Instead, he lovingly lifts it onto his shoulders and carries it home.

This story is a beautiful reminder that no one is forgotten by God, no matter how lost, overwhelmed, or far from home they may feel. It speaks of a love that does not give up, a mercy that reaches beyond our understanding, and a Shepherd who searches for the one who is missing.

As Ethan’s family, we hold close to the hope that the same love and mercy he was learning about throughout his spiritual journey now surrounds him. And when we think of that little lamb resting safely in the Shepherd’s arms, we find comfort in imagining our beloved Ethan being held with that same tenderness, compassion, and unconditional love.

Ethan is lovingly remembered by his mother, Roxana; his father, Ivan; his sister, Nicole; and his beloved nieces, Isabella and Mikelya.

Ethan is also lovingly remembered by his maternal grandparents, Margarita and Walter, and paternal grandparents, Hilda and George; his uncles, Christian and Mario who was also his godfather; his aunts, Gloria, Jenny, and Sonia who was also his godmother; and his cousins, Esai, Sandra, Vivian, Stacia, Kianna, Emilio, Sarena, and Ethem, along with their children and extended families.

He will also be deeply missed by his loved ones Neymi, Michel, and Daniel, his treasured friends, and the many others whose lives were touched by his presence.

Although Ethan’s time with us was far too brief, the love he shared, the memories he created, and the impact he made will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

His family will forever cherish the memories of his childhood, the holidays spent together, the laughter, the simple everyday moments, and the privilege of having him in their lives.

A burial service will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Burnaby, British Columbia, where family, friends, and loved ones are welcome to gather to honour his life and pay their respects.

May the Good Shepherd hold you close, Ethan. May God’s mercy surround you, and may you find everlasting peace in His loving embrace.

If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.

You were loved more than words could ever express, and you will be missed more than you could ever imagine.

Though we cannot hold you in our arms, we will carry you in our hearts for the rest of our lives.

Until we meet again, Ethan. Forever 25, forever loved.

With love, your family. 🤍🕊️

Friends and Family are also encouraged to leave messages of condolences, upload photo or share memories below.