SGM Cruz was born in Lajas, Puerto Rico to Sergio Cruz Torres and Cruz Maria Santiago Baez on October 11, 1940. He went to Catholic primary and secondary schools in his hometown. He married Celia Carmela Camarena deCruz on June 23, 1961 in Balboa, Republic of Panama while stationed as a soldier in the Canal Zone. He briefly attended seminary and university to become ordained as a priest before he felt the call to enlist in the U.S. Army. He served as an Infantry soldier for 30 years. He was a veteran of 2.5 combat tours in the Republic of Vietnam and retired honorably with the Combat Infantry Badge, Drill Instructor Badge, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, 2-Meritorious, 2-Commendation; and multiple overseas ribbons and awards. In retirement, he focused on frequent travel, to spend quality with family in Puerto Rico; Republic of Panama; Aurora, IL; and Tampa, FL. He was an ever-present Husband, Brother, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and Friend physically and virtually. There was nothing he would not do for someone in need, and was very generous with his time and resource with churches.
SGM Cruz is survived by his wife, Carmela and three sons: Reynaldo Cruz (Monica), Reinier Cruz (Terri), and Rene’ Cruz (Silvia); and three Grandchildren, Christian (Ashley), Carissa, and Joshua.
SGM Cruz’s family has petitioned Arlington National Cemetery for interment; date and status pending. Funeral services and arrangements will be coordinated by Blount & Curry Oldsmar West Hillsborough.
SGM Cruz was a lifelong donor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Military Veteran causes. Request any Memorials be given to St. Jude’s or a qualified, Veteran organization.
The Cruz family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the Medical Staff of the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital: Dr. Virginia Volpe, Dr. Priya Satish, Dr. Dr. Karen Stover, Ms. Ebony Brooks; AND Moffitt Cancer Center: Dr. David Sallman, Jessica Fisher (APRN), Amanda Rodriguez (PA-C), and Alana Arcese (PA-C).
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