Alejandro "Alex" Cruz Sr.

Alejandro Cruz Sr. RACINE-Alejandro “Alex” Cruz Sr., 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 17, 2012 at Clairidge House in Kenosha. Alex was born in Catarina, Texas on April 20, 1929 the son of the late Alonzo and Otilia (nee:Villastrigo) Cruz. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1952 until 1954, stationed in Okinawa Japan, honorably discharged as Sergeant. Alex was former member and state director of L.U.L.A.C. for several years. He was employed with the city of Racine as the Affirmative Action Officer retiring after many years of service. Alex enjoyed politics, was an avid reader, and was known for his writing of Hispanic Culture with several publications appearing in The Racine Journal Times. Alex is survived by his wife and lifetime companion, Paula, children; Alex (Laurel Mercer) Cruz Jr. of Michigan, Ed (Melissa Larsen of South Dakota) Cruz of Texas, Nora (Francisco) Jaramillo of Franksville, Norma (Mondy Gomez) Benavente of Racine, Sandra (Harold) DallaPiazza of Milwaukee, Yogi Cruz of Racine and Iram (Jennifer Hinnchey) Cruz of Illinois. He is further survived by 13 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, one great-great grandson, and one brother, Alfonso (Theresa) Cruz of Texas. Alex is also survived by very special nephews, Arturo (Grace) Cruz and Richard (Janie) Diaz both of Texas, along with other nieces, nephews, relatives and many dear friends in Racine and Texas. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Alvaro, Alfredo and Alonzo Jr. and one sister, Christina Diaz. Funeral services for Alex will be held at Sturino Funeral Home on Friday September 21, 2012 at 11 a.m. Following services he will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and at the funeral home on Friday from 10 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Alex in a special way may direct memorials to the Disabled American Veterans, Dept. of Wisconsin, 1253 Schuring Road, DePere, WI 54115. The Cruz family takes this opportunity to publicly express their profound gratitude to Clairidge House and Hospice Alliance for their thorough and attentive care and gentle manner given to our father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.

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Alejandro "Alex" Cruz Sr.

April 20, 1929 - September 17, 2012