Rudy A. Cruz

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rudy Alejandro Cruz on May 3, 2025, at the age of 82. He was born on January 3, 1943, in Tucson, Arizona, to Guadalupe and Virginia Cruz.

Rudy met the love of his life, Barbara Gaona, when he was 8 years old. They were married in 1964 and had 61 beautiful years together. He was known for his love of family and the great outdoors. He worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator for Pima County and after retiring he worked for Holy Family Catholic Church as a “jack of all trades.”

Preceded in joining the Lord by his father and mother, Guadalupe and Virginia Cruz.

Survived by wife, Barbara Cruz; daughters, Araceli Cruz Schou (Dirck Jr.) and Sonya Lazo (Benito); son, Rene Cruz (Andrea); grandchildren, Justin Gallego (Hillary), Felice Gallego, Trinity Schou, Carmela Fonseca (Alex), Joaquin Lazo, Levi Cruz and Breesa Cruz; great grandchildren, August and Francis; sister, Margarita Molina (Rudy Sr.); brother-in-law, Greg Gaona (Lupita); as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Services will be held Tuesday, May 13, 2025, with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. and a Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 338 W. University Blvd., Tucson, AZ.

Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery, 3535 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ.

His love was big; his love is forever; and for that we are blessed.