It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Eva Mae Cruz, who was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on November 22, 2024. A Fort Collins native, born on March 19, 1946 to Mary Martinez, Eva was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Vicentita Mascareñas, affectionately known as "Mama Bessie."
Eva was a cherished presence in the lives of many, known for her warmth, humor, and wisdom. She welcomed everyone with open arms, always ready with a smile, a joke, or a piece of advice. Her home was a haven of comfort and joy for family and friends alike.
Throughout her life, Eva worked diligently as a housekeeper and found joy in her hobbies, which included knitting, crocheting, Tri Chem painting, and volunteering at numerous local schools, Putnam, Irish, Lincoln Jr High, Poudre High, and Rocky Mountain High. She delighted in the beauty of the mountains, enjoyed board games, puzzles, concerts, and dancing, and was a familiar face at the festivals in Old Town. Her love for cooking and vacationing created countless cherished memories for her family.
Eva is survived by her devoted children: daughters Valerie Moreno (Patrick), Veronica Gaucin Martinez (Guillermo), Dawn Villareal (Jesus), Mary Hatfield, and son Ralph Cruz Jr. Her legacy continues through her 19 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 45 years, Ralph Cruz Sr, her mother Mary Martinez, her grandmother Vicentita Mascareñas, her brothers Clark Martinez, Johnnie Mitotes, Hank Martinez, Nick Mitotes, Tony Martinez, and sister Polita Maes. She will also be reunited in paradise with three grandchildren, Ronnie Vincent Llamas, Angela Gaucin Martinez, Angel Cruz and nephew, Rick Duran.
Viewing 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 326 North Whitcomb St. Fort Collins
Rosary at 12:30 at Holy Family
Mass of Christian Burial 1:00 pm at Holy Family
Interment following Mass at Grandview Cemetery
Please consider making a payment to Goes Funeral Care to help Eva's family with funeral costs