Ernesto Paragas Cruz

Ernesto Paragas Cruz 73, left to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 19, 2014, at Sentara Leigh Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. Ernie retired from the US Navy after 20 years, then owned and operated several family businesses, Cora’s Ship Store and Cruzer’s in Norfolk. He was born on December 27, 1940 in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines to Cecilio and Guadencia Cruz. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Socorro “Cora”, sister, Generosa Cagampan, daughters, Loveth Cruz Ousley and husband, Mark Ousley, Cherame Cruz Reveche and husband, Wendell Reveche, Martissa Cruz Apacible and husband, Glenn Apacible, son, Vladimir Cruz and wife, Nealie Cruz, 4 grandchildren, Mitch Chappell, Kiana Snellinger, Rogelio “Dandoy” Reveche and Glen Ernesto Apacible and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Ernie earned a BS in Civil Engineering from Mapua Institute of Technology in Manila, Philippines in 1966 and joined the US Navy shortly after, retiring after 20 years. Ernie and his wife,Cora, were very involved in the international merchant marine community, owning and operating Anchor Ship Store, Cora’s Ship Store, and karaoke club, Cruzer’s. Ernie loved his family and friends and enjoyed attending social gatherings with their many friends. Always laughing and telling jokes, smiles and laughter always surrounded him. The viewing and wake service on Sun. June 22, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E. VA Beach Blvd, Norfolk. A Celebration of His Life will be at 12 noon Monday at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 3314 Sandra Lane, VA Beach, VA 23464. His final resting place will be in Pangasinan, Philippines. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Socorro Cruz, 1000 Aspen Circle, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 www.woodlawngroup.com.