Jose Luis Manuel Cruz

Jose Luis Manuel Cruz, 67, passed away suddenly Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 6:50 a.m. in Harlingen, Texas. Jose Luis was born on September 22, 1949 in Rio Hondo, Texas, to Alberto Ceron Cruz and Blandina Martinez. As a young child, he was raised in Chocaman, Veracruz, Mexico. His family relocated to Tula, Veracruz, Mexico where he was well known by the community as “Manuel Chocaman” and where many of his fond memories begin with his family, friends, and educators. His passion for hard work and the outdoors led him to Northern Michigan. He dedicated his life to preparing the orchards and harvesting the fruit alongside friends and family. He took pride in passing down his meticulous leadership style and strong work ethic to his sons, daughters, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren. During his last days, he would take morning walks and was known for his exciting stories of his family. He loved to teach his grandchildren magic tricks and enjoyed giving new life to tools and equipment.

Jose Luis is survived by his children, Miguel Cruz, Emilio Cruz, Yamilet Harper, Lorena Cruz-Barcenas, Fernando Cruz, Blandina Elizondo, Faride Beaubien, Celina Cruz, Luis Cruz, Joe M. Cruz, twenty-two grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

Viewing services were from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Heavenly Grace Funeral Home in La Feria, Texas on Saturday, April 15, 2017. A prayer from his close friend of thirty-five years, Pastor Guadalupe Castañeda, at 7:00 p.m. made us laugh and cry. At 8:30 p.m., a Rosary Prayer was lead by his daughter Lorena.

Arrangements under the direction of Heavenly Grace Funeral Home, La Feria, TX.