Cruz Garza Esquivel

Cruz Garza Esquivel, 94, beloved husband, father and grandfather of Glendale, Arizona, passed away on December 11, 2012 surrounded by his family. He was born on September 15, 1918, to Aurelio and Juana Esquivel of Melvin,Texas. He married his soulmate, Maria Barraza, June 18, 1941, in Phoenix, Arizona. Cruz proudly served his Country in the United States Army and was a World War II Veteran. He worked as a farm laborer until he joined the City of Glendale, Parks and Recreation Department. He retired in 1980 after 30 years of service. He became a landscaper which allowed him to befriend many people. Cruz was a devoted Catholic and devotee of La Virgin de Guadalupe.Cruz is best known for always smoking his cigars and giving advice to his family. His greatest joy was being surrounded with his family. He was strong both mentally and physically until his passing. Cruz is survived by his wife, Maria, 10 children; Angela (Albert), Frances (David), Lupe (Jose), Cruz, Jr. (Armida), Arnold, Jenny (George), Martha (George) Rachel (Manuel), Paul, Jose (Laurie), 40 Grandchildren, 108 Great Grandchildren and 81 Great-Great Grandchildren. Visitation will be Monday, December 17th, from 5-8 p.m., Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at West Resthaven Cemetery and Funeral Home, 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301. Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, December 18, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 5614 West Orangewood Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301, followed by interment at Resthaven Cemetery (Glendale). Condolences may be offered at www.chapelofthechimesmortuary.com