1947
2019
Jerry was born August 23rd,1947 and passed away on June 7th, 2019 in Durango, CO. He was 71. Jerry was born to Arcenio "Archie" and Gregorita Cruz in Arboles, CO. He grew up in East Carbon, Utah where his father was a coal miner. They moved back to Colorado where he attended Ignacio High School graduating in 1965. He then attended a year of college at Adams State in Alamosa, CO. Jerry soon enlisted in the United States Army serving overseas during the Vietnam War. He was very proud to serve his country and even more proud to have his son follow his military footsteps joining the Army and his Grandson enlisting in the Navy. Jerry lived in Colorado Springs where he met his wife Kathleen Cummings. They moved to East Carbon, Utah and started their family. He worked many years in the coal mines until the mines shut down. He returned to Ignacio in the early 80's where he worked for the Ignacio school district as a bus driver and groundskeeper retiring after 20 years. There was never a time that you wouldn't see him driving down the street in the big red dodge, plowing snow, helping out in the cafeteria, or his morning visit at the patio or El Dorado with his bus driver buddies enjoying his coffee, ham, and eggs and catching up on all the gossip. He enjoyed his bus trips and watching all the kids sports. He especially enjoyed his trips to state wrestling and driving the bus to space camp.
Jerry coached little league baseball for many years and was a member of the American Legion Post 36 and ran the bingo every Saturday night. He was kind, caring and always put his family first and enjoyed his time with his grandchildren. Jerry was a bright light in this community and will be missed by many.
He is preceded in death by his parents Arcenio " Archie" and Gregorita Cruz and one granddaughter. Jerry is survived by his children Brandon Cruz (Karla), Sandra Maez (Mark), Ashley Cruz (Danny), Amanda Cruz, and Tammy Prein. Brother Danny Cruz (Doreen) of Aurora, CO, four nieces Annette Williams (Ronnie), Kristy Allen (Jay), Kym Cruz, and
Samantha Jo Cruz all of Arizona, 18 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Ignacio, CO on Friday, July 5th. Rosary to be said at 9:30 am with a memorial mass to follow at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Jerry's honor to The Ignacio Wrestling Club Attention: Jordan Larson PO Box 460 Ignacio, CO 81137
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Danny & Cruz families; We are truly sorry to hear of your loss. Your brother, Dad & Grandfather was a kind man he will be truly missed and will always be remembered. I have many sweet memories of our family times we spent together. We consider the Cruz family a part of our family. Please accept our condolences we will always remember Jerry as a gentle loving friend.
Robert & Peggy Marquez-Mena
June 26, 2019
Our hearts go out to you Sandra and Mark and the entire family. We will never forget you Jerry. You made this world a better place-
Patti & Steve Barker
June 25, 2019
Danny Cruz and Jerry Children,
When I heard the news of Jerry I was socked and heartbroken. Growing up our family had such fond memory together. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest In Peace my dear sweet friend. Jerry we love you.
Jim & Shirley Marquez Berg
Friend
June 25, 2019
Danny Cruz and Jerry's children may God wrap his arms around you and bring you comfort during these trying days. Jerry is celebrating with the rest of our loved ones that have gone before him. RIP Jerry and fly high with Angles. Bettie Cruz Foster
Bettie Cruz Foster
June 25, 2019
He was a great man, My condolences to the family and his partner in life, Dolores Valdez. I know the loss is great and he loved you Tia.
June 24, 2019
My heartfelt sympathies go out to your family during this difficult time. I hope the promise in 1 Thessalonians 4:14 can bring much comfort. Just knowing that there's a hope for the ones we have lost in death can be so reassuring.
Lizz
June 24, 2019
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