Raymond Cruz

We mourn the loss of Raymond Cruz from Prunedale, CA who passed away on July 19, 2022 at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife Lele Cruz, his beloved siblings, and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. His sisters surviving him are Mary Cruz, Cruzita Ybarra, Lucy Jaquez, and Angie Espinoza. His surviving brothers are Philip Cruz, Cres Cruz, and Dan Cruz.

Ray was born in French Camp, CA on January 20, 1937 to Dionisio and Mercedes Cruz. He grew up in the Manteca area and graduated from Manteca High.

Ray received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Stanislaus State University. He began his career as a parole officer and worked his way up through the ranks of the California Department of Corrections. He retired as Associate Warden at The California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi. Ray was also a Real Estate Broker. He and Lele sold real estate together for many years in Tehachapi.

A gentle and compassionate man, Ray loved traveling and was always on the go. He was an avid golfer and hiker. Some of Ray’s many interests included collecting antiques and listening to live Mariachi music wherever he could find a venue. He loved Dixieland Jazz and often attended the Jackson, CA Dixieland Jazz Festival and the Sacramento Jazz Festival. Ray and Lele enjoyed going to their timeshare in Cancun for family vacations.

Raymond’s passion for life affected everybody who loved him. He will be greatly missed. No funeral is immediately scheduled, however the family will notify loved ones when a memorial celebration of Ray’s life is planned.