It's hard to believe that 1 yr has passed since you left to fly with the Angels.  There was so much that I learned from you and soo much you taught to others. You left an impression on a lot of people.  Until we meet again my friend keep flying with the angels.
Your friend
Paul Condra

How can you describe a man like Jo? I have read all that has been written about him and it’s so true. His hugs were heartfelt and comforting like a warm blanket on a cold night. His smile was genuine and given freely. You’d are missed already by many, may you live long in the memories of all who knew you . Rest now sweet soul your work on earth is done .      Toni Rajotte.  (Barry’s Mom)

We will always remember Joe for the love and laughter he brought to everyone. Forever in our hearts ❤️

One of my most fond memories  of Joe is with the Chamorro bowling league. Joe coached me giving tips to improve my game. At sweeps in Laughlin, NV, I was so nervous knowing I was handicapped and the weak link but even though Joe was fearsly competitive, he was encouraging & I never felt inferior. We always had fun but on one occasion in particular we sang karaoke and closed the bowling alley bar down. Joe saved my dignity by singing a duet with me. Unfortunately the night ended with me earning a DUI. Fortunately I ended up working in the front office of Valley Communications with Barry & Joe. Joe was always jovial with a “Good morning Cher!” One time I was shutting the office down turning off lights, etc. I didn’t hear Joe come in the back door. I came out of an office and saw a guy standing there and was so stunned I didn’t respond right away but then screamed which in turn freaked Joe out and he screamed! It was hilarious when we both realized who we were and our reactions were over the top!
Joe always took the time to call me and sing “happy birthday” every year. He always made me feel special.
Whenever Barry & I made it down to SoCal from Idaho no matter how short the visit or notice, Joe made time to meet us, grab a hug & catch up in person! I intend to carry on his legacy of prioritizing family & friends. Love & miss you Joseph! Until we meet again my dear friend…

Our journey began over 3 decades ago. We met on a job site both working for different companies. I saw how Joe conducted himself and thought that he’d be a great part of our team so I recruited Joe to work at Valley Communications. We quickly became friends outside of work and eventually considered ourselves as brothers. I am  devastated losing my brother. Joe was the best of the best. I will miss him deeply. May you rest in peace brother.

I met Crow Juice at his home,through B-Dog. My first,of their many family gatherings and barbecues. Even remember the Super Bowl victory I was there-a Broncos Win! The friendship helped me a lot at work,he didn’t thump me when I was out of line. All the Love to Joe for much more than that. Rest in Peace,sir. 

I lived next door to Joe for 12 years. The entire Cruz clan welcomed us and quickly became our good friends. My kids grew up with Joe’s kids and my oldest, Sara, is still close friends with Nelly and Rine. All those family trips to the OC Fair, summers cramming all the Cruz kids into the back of my Explorer to my then in-laws pool. The Guamanian Heritage parties.
Holidays. Birthdays. BBQs. Joe came to my son, Kyle’s, football games at Loara. One of the warmest, kind-hearted souls I ever met. You will be greatly missed, Joe.

Joe gave me my first opportunity at a career back in 1998! He was a great leader and mentor! Joe was a class act! My condolences to the the Cruz family! 

My condolences to the family, I worked with Joe for many years back in the early 2000's! He was always so funny & we are like family back then! I'm so sorry for your loss. RIP Joe

Love, Shannon Wright

Joe was the person you always wanted by your side… for so many reasons. The charisma, the strength, the knowledge, the smile, the laugh, the hugs, the advice...all things I will miss and cherish. I’m grateful for the times we spent together, and all of the lessons Joe taught me. So many good times, such a wonderful friend, father, grandfather, brother, coworker.  There will always be a void left from his passing, but there will also be the everlasting memories from our friendship. Truly one of a kind. Rest easy, Brother. We love you, and you will never be forgotten.  

A man who always, always had your back. I didn't see him or talk to him as much as I should have, but I always knew he was there!!!

If there was a ping pong table near by it was on, but not before a strong hand shake and a hug! There are few people you meet in life with the type of charisma that Joe had. When he would enter a room you would instantly know it. I have known Joe since I was a kid and will always have many fond memories of him. One thing that I can say for sure is that I know for a fact I am not the only one that was honored to have him in my life.
LOVE YOU JOE!


Joe truly made our morning workouts enjoyable. He made sure to greet everyone with a “good morning,” and a farewell with a “have an amazing day!” Thanks for creating a gym family for us! We miss you Joe ! 🕊️🤍

Joe Cruz was my friend from the very first moment we met. More than a friend, he was a mentor, a confidant and a big brother. He accepted my flaws and covered for my inadequacy. He inspired and encouraged me. He partied, fought, laughed and loved with an indomitable spirit. His seemingly ever present smile could lift you from the depths of despair and made friends out of strangers.

His love and pride for his family was always first and foremost. His loyalty to those of us lucky enough to be considered friends, was fierce and unconditional.

I hadn't seen or spoken to Joe for over a decade, but only time and distance separated us. He was a true friend, and shall remain so in my heart and my memory for all of my life.

My deepest sympathy for his family. May you find solace in the notion that Joe touched so many lives, was loved by so 
many people and that he represented your family with class and dignity.

Joe, I will miss you my friend and I will remember you always. "Nothin' but love for you, brother". Rest in peace.

Joe Cruz really brought people together and happiness to all. Made all of us gym buddies feel like family. I'm very honored to have known him and will forever miss him.

This is the only picture I was sent of Joe and Tony (background), but I love it cause this is how happy I remember seeing him

OBITUARY

Joseph Yamanaka Cruz, Jr.

17 December, 1962 – 1 July, 2023

Westminster Memorial Park and Mortuary

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