Maria Victoria Cruz

Maria Victoria Isabel ‘Maribel’ Cruz, aged 54, was called by her Creator while surrounded by family on July 28, 2024, at home in Sugarland, Texas. She was born on September 13, 1969 in Manila, Philippines to parents Carlos ‘Carling’ Bondoc Cruz (†) and Evelyn Recio Cruz (†).

Maribel was a graduate of the University of Houston. She worked as a Cargo e-Commerce Analyst with Continental Airlines for 17 years, and in 2011 joined United Airlines in Pricing Strategy and Worldwide Sales. During her 28 years of combined service to both Continental and United Airlines, Maribel demonstrated the highest level of teamwork and accountability and was distinguished by peers and company leaders with United’s Extraordinary Achievement Award.

Her dedication and pride in her work was complemented by her zest for adventure and travel. Her wanderlust brought her to enumerable places around the world, embracing local sights, sounds, culture and food. She shared her adventures with many (MANY!) friends and loved ones, always serving as the local tour guide and making sure that everyone was having a good time.

Her love for adventure was paramount and could only be eclipsed by her love and devotion to her family. She was their Muse, super-Aunt, chief-spoiler, technical support guru, music-streamer, family history-chronicler, among many other roles she lovingly played to the hilt as ‘Ate’ (sister) and ‘Ninang’ (godmother) She had an uncanny ability to forge close relationships and reach and inspire people in ways she never even realized.

Maribel was larger than life, equal parts fun-enabler and voice of caution and reason, hence being beloved by many as a fiercely loyal and tender-hearted confidant.

She is survived by her brothers and their families, Augusto, Antonio and wife Maricar, Alberto and wife Marsha, Alfonso and wife Aileen, Alfred and wife Katrina, nephews and nieces Alejandro, Isabella, Carlos Antonio, Carlos Alfonso, Sophia, Bella, and Albert Carlos.

Maria will be cremated and will take her final journey to the Philippines, accompanied by her brothers. A Funeral Mass in her honor will be held at Christ the King Church, followed by her interment alongside her parents, Carlos B. Cruz and Evelyn Chavez Recio.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Maribel touched are invited to the SETTEGAST-KOPF COMPANY at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 for visitation on Thursday, August 1 and Friday, August 2 from 4-8 PM, and for a Memorial service on Saturday, August 3 at 11 AM (which is preceded by visitation at 10AM). A Reception follows the Memorial Service.