Ralph Santa Cruz

Rafael Alberto Santa-Cruz, 79, passed away on January 7, 2026. He was born on August 13, 1946 in Guanabacoa, Cuba, the only son of Alicia Suarez de la Noval and Wilfredo Santa-Cruz. In 1961, he fled Cuba, going to Miami to live with his father, where he was later joined by his mother.

Ralph attended the University of Miami, graduating in 1968 with a degree in Civil Engineering. Together with two friends, Delfin and Carlos Pernas, he started a general engineering construction company, which he successfully ran until his retirement in 1996. His legacy in engineering was carried on by his children and grandchildren.

He met his wife, Nereida Landa, through a young Cuban professionals group, and they were married on July 28, 1972. Ralph loved discovering new places during his many road trips. Later in life, he and Nery discovered a passion for cruising that took them to Morocco, Chile, and the Panama Canal. He loved spending weekends with Nery at their vacation homes in Islamorada and Venus, FL.

Ralph had a love of the ocean that he inherited from his mother, a love he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He spent many happy days fishing in the Keys alongside family and friends.

Ralph was a dutiful son and son-in-law, devoted husband, loving father, and doting grandfather. He was a man of integrity, thoughtfulness, and generosity.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nery; his children, Eric (Cristina) and Ivan (Jessica); his grandchildren, Sofia, Marco, Cecilia, Lucas, and Eva; and numerous extended family members and friends that will miss him dearly.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026 from 6pm to 10pm at Caballero Rivero, 8200 Bird Road.