Obituary of Joel Cruz

Joel Cruz (1959-2023)

A solemn man with a deep love for music and freedom. 

Joel Cruz, 63,  passed away on August 29th 2023. He was born September 25th, 1959 in Colonia Morelos, Sonora to Francisca Villalobos and Jesus Cruz. Joel often talked about his journey to Arizona. He first settled in Globe where he had 3 daughters. Then traveled to Mesa and fathered 4 sons. He ultimately made Tempe his home, where he had 4 more sons.

Joel started his life working in construction. When the opportunity arose, he began his career as a pressman at Impression Makers Printing. When he was not at work he would embrace his passion for music. He often sang or played instruments along with his favorite bands. There were many days that classic rock was playing loudly out of his garage and you would hear a guitar, keyboard or bass playing along. 

He is survived by his siblings: José Cruz, René Cruz, Jesús Cruz, Abelardo Cruz, Javier Cruz, Norma Cruz, Jorge Cruz and Diana Cruz. He is also survived by his children Lorenza Luciano, Jennifer Luciano, Adrienne Luciano, Jason Gunn, Joel Gunn, Jesse Gunn, Juston Gunn, Xavier Cruz, Raul Cruz, Angel Cruz, and Joshua Cruz. 

He loved his children and grandchildren with all that he had. He gave a lot of love to his nieces and nephews and felt like their kids were his own grandkids. That is where he would get his name Viejo (old man). Even though he was not their tata, he was their Viejo.

His memorial services will be September 11, 2023. The viewing will be at 9:00am and rosary at 9:30am at Meldrum Mortuary 52 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. The burial will be at Guadalupe Cemetery 4649 S Beck Ave. Tempe, AZ 85283. Reception to follow at 1422 W. 5th Street. Tempe, AZ 85282.