In Loving Memory of Santíago Cruz

Santíago Cruz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, in Stamford, Connecticut, at the age of 82. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Santíago was born on July 16, 1942, to Clara Angel Díaz and David Morales Juan in Stamford, Connecticut. From a young age, he displayed a keen intellect and a natural curiosity about the world around him. He attended Danbury High School, graduating in 1960, before pursuing higher education at the University of Connecticut. With hard work and determination, he earned his degree in Biology in 1964, a field he was passionate about and enjoyed sharing with others.

In 1955, Santíago married the love of his life, Amy Cruz. Together, they built a strong and loving family, raising three wonderful children: Mateo, Octavio, and Amy. As a father, he was patient, disciplined, and humble, always instilling in his children the values of faith, hard work, and perseverance. He took great pride in guiding them through life with wisdom and love.

Following his education, Santíago answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army. He dedicated 20 years of his life to military service as a Staff Sergeant (SSG) in the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division. His years in the Army shaped his character, instilling in him a deep sense of discipline, responsibility, and resilience. He spoke often of his service with great pride, sharing stories of camaraderie, dedication, and the lessons he carried with him throughout his life.

Though Santíago had a firm and disciplined demeanor shaped by his military years, those closest to him knew him as a man of deep warmth and kindness. His greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted grandfather to his six grandchildren: Chavonyah Cruz, Tatíana Cruz, Felix Cruz, Rosia Cruz, and Clara Cruz. Nothing made him happier than spending time with them, sharing stories of his adventures, and offering them words of encouragement and wisdom.

His love extended to the next generation as well, as he was blessed with great-grandchildren: Audemar Prince Cruz, Loyal Perez, and Antiango Cruz. He adored them and took great pride in watching his family grow, always emphasizing the importance of faith, unity, and love.

Santíago was also a devoted member of the Christian community, living a life guided by faith and service. He found strength in his beliefs and was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others in need. He was a man of strong moral character, always leading by example and teaching his family the importance of humility, compassion, and perseverance.

Beyond his service and devotion to family, Santíago had a lively spirit and a great sense of humor. He loved sharing meals with loved ones, engaging in deep conversations, and bringing laughter into every room he entered. He had an infectious laugh, a love for good food, and an ability to make everyone around him feel special.

Santíago Cruz will be remembered as a man of honor, faith, and love. His presence brought strength and comfort to his family, and his legacy will continue to live on through the generations he helped shape. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

May he rest in peace, knowing his love and wisdom will forever remain in our hearts.