Israel Cruz

He was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on February 10, 1928 to Isaias Cruz and Leonor Castillo. Israel had three brothers Ismael Cruz, Augusto Cruz and Raul Cruz and one sister Noemi Cruz. Israel had five children; three sons, and two daughters, which are all living today.

In 1936, his father passed away, and he began working at the age of 8 to contribute to the family. Israel worked as a Private Detective in Puerto Rico and was also part owner and instructor in a Private Detective training school. In the early 1950's Israel left Puerto Rico and lived in Palm Beach, Florida for a short period of time, before settling in New york City. In the late 1950's, Israel became a certified latent fingerprint analyst, but never worked in the field as the pay was too low at the time. In the early 1960's he was driving a cab in the Bronx. In the late 1960's to early 1970's, Israel worked for Hydro-Power in New Rochelle, NY as a jet engine parts technician. He played on the company's bowling team where Israel won many trophies. In the mid 1970's, Israel worked for General Development Corporation. In 1979, he obtained a license to sell car insurance and began People's Travel and Insurance on 4th Ave. in Brooklyn. In the mid 1980's, Israel volunteered his time to serve the citizens of New York City in the NYPD Auxiliary Unit for the 72nd Precinct in Brooklyn, where he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In the mid 1990's, Israel sold his property and insurance business in New York and relocated to Florida where he resided until 2017.

His earliest ambitions were, always be career minded and finish what you started without regrets. Israel lived his life being strict, but caring. Firm, but kind and generous. He taught his kids to be believers. He was spiritual, faithful, nurturing, and reliable. Israel was always there for his wife for every step of the way, when she needed him the most, until the very end! His proudest family moment was when he moved his family to South Florida, in an attempt to save his wife's life as she battled cancer.

Israel had valuable life lessons he lived by. Working hard with your hands. Learning everything you can from others. Be respectful to our family, elders, and others. Never stop learning until you can depart from this earth. Laughter is always the best medicine. The Dominos arguments between uncles and relatives, also taught his family to use their competitive nature, but always make up with one another once games conclude.

He loved music. His favorite artist and songs were Trios Los Panchos, merengue, salsa, and all Spanish music. His favorite colors were Grey and plymouth (Dodge Duster). Israel's hobbies he enjoyed were fishing, crabbing, baseball, and most importantly spending time with his family. What he loved the most was Candida Virginia Cruz, his children, Christ, and FAMILIA.

Israel would like to be remembered by Familia y Cristo primero que nada. Love for your familia...Siempre!

Israel Cruz was survived by his children Jeassy (Late Gregorio Saez), Isaac (Marifeli Cruz), Leonor (Late Shawn Albritton), David (Maria Cruz) and Douglas (Martha Cruz). Grandchildren: Gregory (Linda Saez), Daisy (Antonio Garcia), Samuel (Megen Saez), Jeassy (JD Harris), Nathaniel Davila, Marcella (Cristopher Albritton), Stephanie Cruz, Anthony Cruz, Christian Cruz, Victoria Cruz, Evan Cruz. Great grandchildren: Yesenia (Luke Emerson), Kaleb (Brikail Saez), Ashley (Brayan Cavazos), Nathan Saez, Gabriela Saez, Alyssa Harris, Jon Harris, Dominik Saez, Samantha Saez, Andrew Saez, Aiden Guzman, Jonathan Guzman. Great great grandchildren Zayde Simeon Emerson and Ezra David Emerson.

A visitation for Israel will be held Friday, November 3, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Calvary Hill Funeral Home, 21723 Aldine-Westfield Road, Humble, TX 77338. A celebration of life will occur Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 21723 Aldine-Westfield Road, Humble, TX 77338. A graveside service will occur Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Calvary Hill Cemetery, 21723 Aldine-Westfield Road, Humble, TX 77338.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CalvaryHillFuneralHome.com for the Cruz family.