Pastor Raul Cruz Sr.

Pastor Raul Cruz Sr., 97, of Orlando, FL, passed away on December 31, 2016. Born in Ranchuelo, Cuba on September 11, 1919 to the late Florentino and Pilar Cruz, Raul was a beloved husband, father, minister, mentor, teacher, counselor, and friend. He moved to Florida from Cuba with his family on December 8, 1980, where he remained for 36 years. Raul’s passion in life was caring for others. He served others with a selfless heart, expecting nothing in return. He cared for people, no matter who they were to him. He was a minister throughout his lifetime, but also worked for Florida Hospital for 22 years. Raul served many important roles throughout his lifetime, including President of the SDA Conference in Cuba and Principal of a Theological Seminary. He was a Godly man who believed in the power of prayer, and prayed for his family daily. Raul also enjoyed gardening, playing the mandolin, and writing poems. He wrote over 600 poems for his family and church members throughout his lifetime, which they will treasure forever. Raul shared 71 years of marriage with his surviving wife, Rosa, and together they raised 3 wonderful children. He will be sorely missed by all those whose lives he impacted. Pastor Raul is survived by his loving, dedicated wife, Rosa Cruz; their children, Raul Cruz Jr. (Marta), Rhode Espinosa, and Raquel De Armas (Evaldo); 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews in addition to a host of church family and friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm at Sheeler Oaks SDA Church, 1822 Sheeler Ave., Apopka, FL 32703. Service will be held at 8:00 pm during visitation. Interment will follow on Friday, January 6, 2017 at 10:00 am at Highland Memory Gardens, 3329 E Semoran Blvd, Apopka, FL 32703.