Cruz Zamarripa

May 3, 1945 – October 24, 2026

Cruz Zamarripa, a beloved father, husband, grandfather, veteran, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ, passed away on October 24, 2026. He was born on May 3, 1945, in San Antonio, Texas, to Apolonio Zamarripa and Josefina Gatica.

Cruz lived a life marked by faith, generosity, hard work, and humor. He was an incredible father whose love and presence will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

As a student at Clio High School, Cruz distinguished himself as a track runner, holding a school track record. He later served in the United States military and was a recipient of the Purple Heart, an honor recognizing his sacrifice and service to our country. Following his military service, Cruz built a career with General Motors, where he worked until his retirement.

Above his professional accomplishments, Cruz treasured his faith and family. A faithful follower of Jesus Christ, he sought to live with generosity and remained grounded in his beliefs. His humor and generous spirit were important parts of who he was, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.

Cruz was preceded in death by his first wife, Ester Villarreal Zamarripa, and his siblings, Sanjuana Zamarripa Karbowski and Carmen Zamarripa Boyd.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Brock Zamarripa; his daughter, Tabitha Gangnier, and her husband, Christopher Gangnier; and his grandson, Isaac Cruz Gangnier; and Carol’s children, Scott A. Feldpausch, Catherine J. Feldpausch, Michael B. Feldpausch and his wife, Stacy, and Beth Anne Kincaid and her partner, William. He is also survived by his siblings, Paul Zamarripa, Jesusa McDougal, Augustin Zamarripa, Joe Zamarripa, Mary Lou Edinger, and Ralph Zamarripa, along with many grandchildren, extended family members, and loved ones.

Visitation and Service

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Swartz Funeral Home, Hill Road, Flint, Michigan, followed by a service at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026

Following the service, burial will take place at Crestwood Cemetery on Hill Road in Grand Blanc, Michigan.

Family and friends are invited to gather afterward for food and fellowship at Beluah Land Christian Center on Genesee Road in Burton, Michigan.

The family welcomes those who knew and loved Cruz to share their memories, photographs, and stories as a way of honoring his life and preserving his legacy.