Lisa Marie Cruz

Lisa was a long-time member of Sandy Coor VFW Auxiliary Post No 1433, having served in various positions of responsibility over the past 34 years. Volunteerism was instilled in her at an early age; she and her brother helped serve Veterans, clean, and maintained the Post from the age of eleven. Lisa volunteered much of her life, with the U.S. Navy Morale Welfare and Recreation in Norfolk VA, local Arizona U.S. Army Reserve family readiness groups, and local U.S. Air Force units. In addition, she recently served in management at the Post assisting, as always, the veterans in her life.

When not volunteering for those in need, she could also be found cheering on (and wearing the colors of) her favorite teams: the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers, and the one and only Jeff Gordon.

Lisa welcomed everyone with a smile. Her laughter was boisterous, contagious, and she was always willing to lend an ear to listen to anyone in need.

She is survived by her two children, Richie Saurers and Felicia Cruz: also, her brother Alejo “Al” Cruz II, four grandchildren RJ Saurers, Blake Levi Saurers, Brystal Lynn Saurers and Daxton Reign Alejo Saurers. Lisa is also survived by her stepmother Noreen Nickerson Cruz, four stepsiblings Wayne Nagel, Theresa Pappas, Jonathan Nagel, Audrey O’Connell, and multiple nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life and memorial in honor of Lisa’s life on September 30, 2023, at 1 PM at Sandy Coor VFW Post 1433, 7618 N. 63rd Avenue, Glendale.