Joseph C. Cruz, 70, of San Antonio, Texas was received into the gates of heaven on May 1, 2020 with the accompany of his wife and children.

Joseph was born March 19, 1950 to the parents of Emil and Beatrice Cruz in San Antonio, Texas.  He graduated from South San Antonio High School in 1968.  He enlisted in the United States Air Force Reserves on September 27, 1968 serving 12 years.  He started his Federal Civil Service career with the Department of the Air Force as an Aircraft Mechanic at Kelly Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas on July 17, 1968.  He held many different positions throughout his career working predominately as a Pneudraulic Systems Mechanic.  He was highly recognized throughout his career receiving numerous Notable Achievement Awards, a Special Act/Service Award, and earned superior to excellence performances.  He retired with 31 years of Federal Civil Service from the Department of the Air Force on September 3, 1999.

Joseph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all.  Family was his priority and he always ensured we were all taken care of.  He loved unconditionally through his selfless giving and assistance to others.  Joseph was always there when you needed him; whether it be to fix a car, build a storage, or needed transportation.  The list is endless.  He had a heart of gold that shined through his love, dedication, and sacrifices.  Joseph sense of humor would lead to endless laughter which has left many lasting memories.  He believed and accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior; leading his family to Christ.  We all would learn something from Joseph and always enjoyed his presence.  He loved teaching, playing, and being around his grandchildren whom all gravitated to his attention.  He enjoyed family gatherings, bar-b-ques, holiday celebrations, birthdays, and just being together.

Joseph loved to collect and refurbish classic cars like his 1955 Chevy.  He was a carpenter, mechanic, and overall hard worker who took take care of others before himself.  He loved to watch classic movies like:  The Three Stooges, Abbott and Costello, Andy Griffith Show, and The Monkees.  Joseph would endlessly listen to his favorite music artist such as The Beatles, Mamas and Papas, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.  He loved eating; always talked about the best restaurants in town and the food he ate.

Joseph is survived by his wife Aurora Gauna Cruz, son, Joseph Cruz Jr., daughter-n-law Monica Gonzalez, three daughters, Melissa Perez and husband David Perez, Elizabeth Davila and husband Ronnie Davila, Valerie Nitz and husband Frederick Nitz; along with 13 grandchildren Mia Cruz, Logan Cruz, Desiree Gonzalez, Ariana Gonzalez, Darienne Perez, David Ryan Perez, Elijah Davila, Bailey Davila, Jada Nitz, Joshua Nitz, Janelle Nitz, Johanna Nitz, and Helena Nitz.  Joseph was preceded in death by his parents Emil and Beatrice Cruz and grandson Jaden Davila.

FUNERAL SERVICES

Due to current mandates, funeral services will be held privately.