Frank Cruz Sr.

Frank Cruz Sr. passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 91. He was born on October 21, 1933 in Dallas, Texas to Pantaleon Cruz and Carolina Fernandez.

Frank grew up in Dallas, specifically the former neighborhood known as Little Mexico, alongside his parents and sister. He graduated from Crozier Technical High School in 1952. Shortly after graduating, Frank proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of Corporal. His time in the military was a point of pride, and he carried the values of discipline, service, and dedication with him in everything he did. Following his service, Frank began a long and dedicated career with Otis Engineering Company, which was later acquired by Halliburton. During his tenure at Otis, he co-invented the Chip Washing System—an innovative, patented technology designed to improve the efficiency and cleanliness of industrial metal processing.

He married the love of his life, Gloria Peña, on June 28, 1959. Happily married for nearly 60 years, their union was a beautiful example of love, commitment, and partnership. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, family, and mutual respect—a bond that inspired all who knew them. Their home was filled with laughter, warmth, and unwavering support for one another. The couple had two children, Frank Jr. and Inelda Cruz, who gave them six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Frank had a love for the outdoors and cherished the quiet moments spent fishing or hunting with family. He also found great joy in tending to his garden, where his green thumb brought life to everything he touched. Whether nurturing blooming flowers or growing fresh fruits and vegetables, Frank had a special gift for cultivating beauty and growth, both in his garden and in the lives of those around him. He also enjoyed the game of golf, whether playing on his own or watching tournaments on TV, and was especially proud of the hole-in-one he achieved. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, he rarely missed a game and proudly supported his team through every season. In quieter moments, Frank could often be found with a newspaper in hand, as he was an avid reader who kept up with the world around him and appreciated stories that sparked thought and reflection.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Cruz; his parents, Pantaleon Cruz and Carolina Fernandez, and sister Teresa Sanchez. Frank is survived by his son Frank Cruz Jr. and wife Angela Cruz and daughter Inelda Cruz and husband Juan Padron, grandchildren Franchesca Cruz, Joseph Cruz, Jose Cervantes, Felicia Maldonado and husband Alejandro Maldonado, Clarissa Cruz, and Frank Cruz III, and great-grandchildren Juselle and Jocelyn Quezada and Ariel and Alejandro Maldonado II.