Michael Brandon Kozma Cruz

Michael was born on August 19, 1987, at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, to Christine Kozma Russell and the late Bagferry Acedo Cruz. As the son of a military family, Michael and his siblings spent their childhood moving from duty station to duty station, creating lifelong memories and friendships along the way. From South Carolina to Arizona, North Carolina, and eventually Nevada, Michael developed the resilience, adaptability, and strong sense of family that would define his life.

A gifted athlete and martial artist, Michael dedicated many years to the study of Taekwondo through the American Taekwondo Association (ATA), achieving the distinguished rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt. His talent and discipline led him to become a three-time Grand Champion in open karate tournaments throughout North Carolina, including earning the title of North Carolina State Champion in Xtreme Martial Arts (XMA).

Outside of competition, Michael lived life with passion and energy. He loved skateboarding, staying active and fit, and continually challenging himself physically and mentally. He was a true master of the nunchucks, often impressing family and friends with his skill, speed, and precision. Whether he was training, working out, or simply enjoying time outdoors, Michael approached life with determination and confidence. Those who knew him best would also agree that he had a knack for being the occasional badass—fearless, adventurous, and always ready to take on a challenge with his signature blend of humor and swagger.

Michael graduated from Swansboro High School and continued his education at Coastal Carolina Community College, where he earned his Associate of Arts degree. He later graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology.

In 2013, Michael relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, to be closer to his mother and family. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a remarkable work ethic and commitment to excellence. He served as a Security Manager at both Resorts World and The Cromwell, where he was respected for his leadership and professionalism. Later, he joined Aurimas Delivery Service for Amazon, consistently earning recognition as one of the company's top-performing drivers and receiving multiple awards for his outstanding productivity and dedication.

Of all Michael's accomplishments, none brought him greater joy than becoming a father. On June 22, 2025, he welcomed his beloved son, Judah Ezra Kozma Cruz, into the world. Judah became the center of Michael's universe. Fatherhood filled his life with purpose, happiness, and pride. Michael treasured every moment spent with his son and often spoke of his hopes and dreams for Judah's future. He was determined to raise him to be kind, confident, well-rounded, and strong. The love Michael shared with Judah was immeasurable, and that bond will remain forever.

Michael is survived by his cherished son, Judah Ezra Kozma Cruz; his loving mother, Christine Kozma Russell; and his siblings: Amy Mulero and her husband Joseph Mulero, Amber Vergara and her husband Alejandro Vergara, Summer Panzica and her husband Christopher Panzica, Christina Cruz and her husband Daniel O'Connell, Joseph Cruz, and Jonathan Cruz and his wife Ana Cruz.

He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, including Antonio Mulero (Brendan), Joseph Alexander Mulero (Alora), Joshua Mulero (Hazel, Savannah, and Eli), Sirena Vergara, Sonny Vergara, Christopher Panzica Jr. and his wife Miranda Panzica (Luciano and Aria), Paul Panzica, Italia Panzica, Eli Rappa, and Emmi Rappa.

Michael will be remembered for his determination, loyalty, sense of humor, competitive spirit, and deep love for his family. Whether through his martial arts achievements, dedication to his work, or the unwavering love he showed those closest to him, Michael left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though his time with us was far too short, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and especially in the life of his son, Judah, who carries forward his father's legacy of strength, perseverance, and love.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to support Judah's future needs and education through the GoFundMe established in Michael's memory.

"Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they shared, the lives they touched, and the love that remains forever in our hearts."

Special thanks to Aurimas Delivery Service for graciously covering the cost of Michael’s funeral service.