William Cruz

William ‘Willie’ Cruz, 53, of New Britain, Connecticut, unexpectedly passed away at his home on Friday, May 17th 2013. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Nelida Cruz, and his two children, William Omar and Erika Michelle Cruz, whom he loved unconditionally.

Willie was born in Patillas, Puerto Rico on January 22, 1960 to the late Pascual Cruz and Eduviges Montanez. He was raised on the island alongside surviving sisters Aida, Ana, Carmen and Ramonita Cruz. He is also survived by brothers Andres Cruz, Jose Luis Cruz, Justo Montanez, predeceased sibling Ramon Cruz, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends in the community.

A longtime resident of New Britain, Willie worked as a Machinist at Pratt and Whitney Corp. He genuinely enjoyed being outdoors; riding his classic bicycle through town, completing landscaping projects, and playing basketball. But Willie will be remembered most for the qualities that made him a great person – his ability to make anyone laugh, his friendly and welcoming attitude towards all, and the love he had for his family and friends.

Visitation services will be held on May 23rd from 5-9pm at New Britain Memorial Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Ave, New Britain, CT. All are encouraged to meet at the funeral home at 8:30am on Fri, May 24th prior to church services held at 10am at St. Mary Church, 544 Main St., New Britain. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, 453 Fairfield Ave., Hartford, CT. For directions, tributes or memorial contribution information, please visit www.newbritainsagarino.com.