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John Cruz Obituary
John R. Cruz wasn't one of those guys who proposes marriage to his girlfriend, forks over the ring, then waits to be informed when and where to attend the wedding.
He had proposed to his bride, Susan Fereira, only two weeks before the disaster, when they had both flown out to California for a wedding. So, the whole weekend before the terrorist attack, the lovebirds took delight in discussing the complex details. It had to be at Sacred Heart Church in Yonkers, where Ms. Fereira lived. It would certainly be a large wedding: her family is Portuguese and his is Puerto Rican, with many of his relatives living around Lakewood, N.J.
Their friends from Morgan Stanley would be there, because that was where they had met, and where she still works. And certainly there must be a contingent from Cantor Fitzgerald, where Mr. Cruz was in the accounting group on the 101st floor of 1 World Trade Center. On Monday, Sept. 10, they set the date: Sept. 21, 2002.
Now she remembers all the good things. For example, "how he carried a Bible," she said, "and read a passage every morning on the way to work."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Alan Cruz
September 12, 2024
Uncle Robbie, we all still miss you dearly. 23 years have gone by and yet all the memories seem so fresh. Our family keeps your memory going by remembering the great times, laughter, surprise visits and childhood stories from dad. It is still my greatest honor to be your nephew, I wear that like a badge. I continue to share my fond memories with Chloe as she learns more about her Great Uncle. She knows your name, she knows your face and that means the world to me. I love you, I miss you. Love, Alan Jr.
Jeff Roberson Jr.
September 11, 2024
John, this is year 24 and it feels like everything happened just yesterday. I miss you brother, my prayers are with your family, your friend Jeff
Alan Cruz, Jr.
September 11, 2023
Your presence is still felt by so many, all these years later. That shows the impact of your legacy. I am reminded how grateful I am to call you Uncle. Now Chloe, your great-niece, calls you Uncle while she holds your picture. She listens to your story as told by my childhood memories. Moments like these define the saying "never forgotten". Your legacy, your impact, will last a lifetime. Uncle Robbie, I miss you. I love you. Love always.
Jeff Roberson
September 11, 2023
22 Years and I miss you, celebrating your life and joyous smile and personality, god bless your family and friends, sincerely your coworker and forever friend Jeff Roberson Jr.
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Jeff Roberson Jr.
September 11, 2022
21 Years and I remember my good friend John Cruz, you will always be in our memeories, I miss you, god bless your family, Yours Truly
JEFF ROBERSIN JR.
Jeff Roberson Jr.
September 11, 2021
Remembering my friend John Robert Cruz on this 20th anniversary of the 9-11 events. I just wanted to write that I miss you and that you are forgotten.
Cindy Roe
September 5, 2021
Remembering John on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Philip Alan Cruz, Jr.
September 15, 2020
Uncle Robbie, to say that 19 years have passed is astonishing. Life has flown by, but seems to slow down a bit when your memory comes to mind. The thought of you, your smile, laugh, personality and all that you encompass brings joy like no other to me. I catch myself frequently wondering how life would be with you here and how awesome it would be to share my life and current uncle experiences with you. That's one thing you left with me- the Uncle should always be the one to bring the fun, laughs and adventures. In those moments, you are part of me in bringing that same joy to my nephews and niece. Thank you for that. It is one way I keep your memory constant. You will always be a part of me.
Love always- your nephew, Alan Jr.
Jeff Roberson Jr.
September 11, 2020
This is the 19th year of remembrance, I miss you buddy! 2020 has been an unforgettable year but we will never forget the tragic events that unfolded on this day 19 years ago, that is why we remember and celebrate you, you life and the memories that we all have shared with such a bright light of life. I know that you are one of Heaven's angels looking down on us, love you brother.
May 24, 2020
Still the best Johnny. RIP. Brian McP
Carmen Roberts
September 11, 2019
RIP John Cruz. I know you and Herschel Quiñones are looking down at us all.
The Lucas Family
March 13, 2019
Sending our continued deep sympathy to your family. May God continue to give the needed strength and comfort everyday. John touched the lives of others and will always be remembered.
Reflecting in love Varriale and Santiago family.
Julianne Cotte
December 28, 2018
Philip Alan Cruz, Jr.
December 26, 2018
Happy Birthday Unc! Hope you enjoy your celebration in the Heavens.
Miss you tons as always. As I grow older, I think more about what I would've like to share with you on my life journey. I hope that you'd be proud of where I'm at and where i'm going. Just know, I strive to walk a path as you did and have found my way to this point. Each time you cross my mind, I like to think about your life and how it truly inspires me. Thank you for that. Take care... until we meet again. Love always, your nephew - Alan Jr.
Jeff Roberson
September 11, 2018
Hi John, I can't believe it has been 17 years, time has flown by but you are not and will not be forgotten my friend, I still reflect on the fun times we shared, I am blessed to have known you and wish your family all the best,
Your Friend, Jeff Roberson Jr.
Your great nephew who is named in honor of you, visiting the Memorial for the first time. May 2018
Marie Cruz
August 22, 2018
Family visit to Memorial, May 2018.
Marie Cruz
August 22, 2018
Maurits
August 19, 2018
you are not forgotten!
You are so missed!
Marie Cruz
September 12, 2017
Jeff Roberson
September 11, 2017
Hi John, my friend and as I have always stated " you are gone but nor forgotten" I miss you, wish all the best for you family and in remembering all the great time we had together as always your friend
Jeff.
September 11, 2016
Never forget
Heather Powell
September 11, 2016
It is hard to imagine that fifteen years have passed since you left us. Our days of youth and laughter at Lakewood HS are fresh in my memory. Just know , that you and all of the others lost in that unimaginable day , will be with all of us for the rest of our days. Rest in peace my sweet friend. As always , I pray for your family and loved ones - on this day especially.
September 11, 2016
Hi John, can not believe that it has been 15 years, I keep you in my memory all the time and know that you are one of god's Angels smiling down on all of us, remembering you today and on many other days
Your Friend, Jeff Roberson Jr
July 21, 2015
If anyone can please help me. I'm trying to reach Johns mother. I lived in Lakewood. I was a very good friend of his. If anyone wld be kind enough to pls give Mrs. Cruz my email address I wld DEEPLY and GRATEFULLY appreciate it. I have something that I know Mrs.Cruz wld want.
[email protected]
John...Always loving you. Forever missing you. You will Always and Forever be in my heart!!
I will keep my promise....xo
Picture found on Pintrest
Marie Cruz
April 7, 2015
In his office @Cantor Fitzgerald
Marie Cruz
April 7, 2015
California the week before 9 11
Marie Cruz
April 7, 2015
John's name on the Sept.11th memorial
Marie Cruz
April 7, 2015
Zoe Lambert
April 6, 2015
I never met you , but i love and miss you ,my parents always tell me how funny you were and how they loved you so much, i hope you are having a good time in heaven, love you and miss you, forever in my mind.
Cathy Hawley
September 15, 2014
John...You are deeply missed by all that knew you...Rest in Peace
Ben Cruz
September 11, 2014
John, you're truly missed. R.I.P
Heather Hull Powell
September 11, 2014
My family continues to pray for you and your family on this day and always .
God bless you
Jeff Roberson
September 11, 2014
John, it has been 13 years and a lot has happened over that time in my life, wich you were here to share them, but I still have you in my mind and in my heart, miss you buddy.
Heather Hull Powell
September 11, 2014
John, it has been 13 years today... it seems like only yesterday we were in high school together. Your memory is being kept alive by my family and so many others who loved you . You were such a blessing to all who had the pleasure of knowing you. We miss you and continue to pray for you and your family ?
Abby Mojica
December 27, 2013
Hi John & Family, I visited the 911 memorial yesterday and for some reason stopped and was drawn to pray at your name; it had a beautiful white rose on it in your honor. May peace be with you and your family always...
Jim Owens
September 11, 2013
John...I went to lakewood high school with you, and I remember how all the girls loved you. Rest in peace and may your light shine on those you loved.
Jeff Roberson
September 11, 2013
As a sign of rememberance and respect, I reflect back on this Tragic day and the loss of life but have joy filled memories of our past friendship, you are definitely missed and happy that you are an Angel that smiles down upon us and keeping us safe, in memory of my good friend.
Philip Alan Cruz Jr.
May 25, 2013
Uncle Robbie, it's Memorial Day weekend and we are celebrating the ones who sacrificed their lives for our freedom over the years. I honor them and you for the true American heroes that you are. I miss you everyday, but knowing that you're my guardian angel I can feel your presence wherever I go. That alone gives me the strength to keep persevering and become a better man just as you were. I love you and keep watching over us all.
Jennifer Fleishman
September 13, 2012
Robbie, rest in God's loving arms until we all meet again. You will never be forgoten. September 11,2001 America will always remember.
Marie Cruz
September 13, 2012
Always in our hearts! We rejoice knowing you are in God's arms and watching over us. The tears we shed are sad at times but mostly of the wonderful happy memories we have of you! Rest in Peace Robbie.
September 13, 2012
never forget
migdalia irizarry
September 13, 2012
IN LOVING MEMORY ON MY CHILDHOOD FRIEND...JOHN ITS BEEN 11YRS AND I STILL FEEL THE SADINESS OF YOUR LOSS...MAY YOU ALWAYS RIP...
Linda Polowys
September 11, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Robert Negron
September 11, 2012
Like every year I always listen for your name. You won't ever leave my mind or heart.
September 12, 2011
Hi everyone, It was not until 2 years ago our family knew that John Robert Cruz was our relative. It was during the process of settling an older aunt's estate. He was a third cousin of our mother, Haydee Santiago-Varriale. Nonetheless, our hearts go out to all who loved this man. Indeed this was a tragic end to his life.
Julianne Varriale-Cotte.
philip alan cruz jr.
September 11, 2011
uncle robbie, the memorial is beautiful. words can't even describe how amazing it looks, i was truly humbled. seeing your name brought so many mixed emotions, but i do my best to remember you as an american hero. that clears the tears and brings a huge smile to my face just as your smile lit up rooms. thank you for all the amazing memories and continue watching over all of us. miss you and love you so very much!
Jeff Roberson Jr.
September 11, 2011
To my good friend John, I still can not believe that is has been 10 years, as everyone has stated a lot has happened over that time, you are definitely missed but will never be forgotten, it seems like yesterday we were working together and playing in our company's basketball league, I pray that all is well with the rest of your family and friends, miss you buddy
Raymond Golson
September 11, 2011
Still think about you buddy... Rest In Peace my friend
Stacey Siegel
September 11, 2011
The memories we made, the good times that we shared, the friendship that we had, will always be cherished.
Sending healing energy and to your family on the 10 year anniversary.
We all miss you down here John. You will always have a special place in my heart... xoxo
Cathy Hawley
September 11, 2011
John, Continue to Rest in Peace
Susana Ferreira-Mosiello
September 10, 2011
My Dearest Johnnie, I cannot even begin to tell you about what has happened in the last 10 yrs...but I am sure you had ALOT to do with how my life has turned out. It feels like only yesterday that we were planning our future and making memories and I can remember our last conversation the morning of 9-11 like it was today.You still remained positive even at that moment. I am so grateful for having had you in my life and for making me a better person. I am so proud that you chose me to be Mrs. John R Cruz and will always cherish that. I miss that smile and laugh that just seemed to make everything better all the time. On this 10th anniversary I just want to let you know how very loved and missed you are. You will never know how many hearts you left your mark on. I love you with all my heart and know you are always smiling down on me. Til we meet again my Angel...all my love, always in my heart Susie
Shirley Rodriguez
September 9, 2011
Dear friend, life has taken so many turns in these past 10 years but what remains unchanged is your memory that lives in our hearts each day. Miss sharing those good laughs, runs to McD's and that beautiful smile that lighted up any room. One thing you must know is that a strong friendship/ family bond was built with the bag lady and each day that goes by we remember all those wonderful moments we shared. Miss you buddy!
Marilyn Santiago
September 9, 2011
The world lost a great guy on 9/11, my heart and prayers continue for the Cruz family. We were so blessed to have him as a part of our family. Forever in our hearts, RIP Robbie!
Andrea Fernandez
September 9, 2011
In my prayers from this day on.
migdalia "mickey" irizarry
September 8, 2011
JOHN YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART. REST IN PEACE MY DEAREST FRIEND...
Philip Alan Cruz Jr.
September 8, 2011
Best Uncle a kid could ever ask for. Every day that passes you are on my mind and forever will stay in my heart.I strive more and more to be just like you and walk in the same foot steps you did in life. The greatest compliment i've ever received was "wow, you are just like your Uncle Robbie in so many ways." I will forever be greatful to have had you in my life and now as my guardian angel. Love you and miss you so much Uncle Robbie!
Tammy Crouter, Hearon
September 8, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
DINA HAWKINS-STRAND
September 8, 2011
In Loving Memory!
Christopher Warren
September 7, 2011
Holding on to some great memories old friend...
Dina Ferreira-Dunn
September 5, 2011
Not a day goes by that I don't miss you or think of you, cannot believe it's been 10 years. So much has happened in these past years and I know that you are around watching over us. It's even harder now knowing that my little Peter will never know you - but I will make sure he grows up knowing all about you, the brother that I never had. Rest in peace always.
Marie Cruz Sister- in-law
September 5, 2011
On this 10th anniversary we remember like it was yesterday. Time passes but the hurt and pain is always there. Robbie, you are missed so much. We wonder what life would have been like if you weren't taken away from us that terrible day. Your whole family knows God was and is still in control & our faith is stronger than ever. Like in life, John "Robbie" still continues to touch others even through his death.
Thank you from the Cruz family for your thoughts & prayers!
September 5, 2011
Soon after the tragedy of 9/11 our Catholic church had us randomly pick names of those that passed on that day. I picked John Robert Cruz 32 y.o from New Jersey. I have been praying for John and his family and friends since that time. On the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I wanted John's family and friends to know that he has been in my prayers. I still keep his name in my wallet on that little slip of paper. I know that John is a special angel that has guided his family and friends all these years. In some way I felt connected to him especially because we were the same age. My continued love and prayers to his family. Michelina Bolton
September 11, 2010
We are blessed to have shared many memories and happy moments. Your memory will live forever, we miss you buddy RIP.
Abel & Shirley Rodriguez
September 10, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with John's family.~Kendra (Engel) Myers, Middletown, DE
Christopher Warren
September 10, 2010
God bless old friend
Jim Belli
September 10, 2010
God Bless you, I knew John in High School. He will always be remembered as a great person. Our heart goes out to his family and loved ones. I was working in NYC during the tragedy and find this time of the year always brings up deep emotions, my prayers are that all remembering John, his family, and all the victims that day find peace in our hearts.
Juan Torres
September 10, 2010
I have very fond memories of the Cruz family. Like so many others, I grew up with "Robbie" and his family in Raintree and was also their paperboy. It was heartbreaking to hear the awful news so long ago and is still difficult to accept. My heartfelt condolences to all who love and miss him everyday of their lives. I was younger than Robbie, but he was a guy you could look up to, and I did.
On behalf of the Torres family (1556 Laguna Lane), may God bless and keep his soul and also those that bear the burden of his loss.
Juan
David Sterling
September 8, 2010
Every year that passes I think of you . Not only were you on my bus in school but we were friends.My son is born on that day in 2007.May you rest in peace
Mary (Wadsworth) Tortoriello
July 12, 2010
Dear Mickey:
You are always in my thoughts.
Mary (Wadsworth) Tortoriello
October 26, 2009
I know, in my heart, that you belong to God.
carmen roberts
September 12, 2009
Well my friend it has been 8 years now and we stll have not forgotten you. We never will. We luv and miss you. Rest in peace my friend.
September 11, 2009
TO MY NEPHEW:
I was always proud that you would allow me to call you NEPHEW.
Miss you but I know it is all part of Gods plan. We will someday be together again.
Your Uncle Lemuel
Jeff Roberson Jr
September 11, 2009
John, you are still not forgotten, my first entry in this guest book was in 2002, a year after the 9-11 attacks, the friendships, impact and impressions that John had on people were forever lasting. I miss you my friend.
Carmen Roberts (Gonzalez)
September 25, 2008
I remember John back in high school hanging around the halls and in front of the senior's lunch room with his boyz. He was always polite and had a smile that you could never forget. Well now he is in a peaceful place were we can only dream of being. My friend, may you rest in internal peace for we will one day see your smile again. We will forever remember you in our hearts. We will never forget!
Shirley Rodriguez
September 12, 2008
Dear friend, you can't imagine how much we reflect back on all the good times we shared together. You are truly missed more and more as each day goes by. You will always be in our hearts. Your memory shall live on! Until we meet again my friend.
Chris Warren
September 11, 2008
We'll never forget...
James P. Callanan
September 11, 2008
John, I remember when you used to come over and hang out with my brother Brian. We had alot of fun! I think of you often and I know that someday we will meet again in glory! Until then, I will continue to spread the good news of the Gospel!
Robert Negron
September 11, 2008
I miss you John. Our time back in HS was great regardless. You touched my life in a profound way in that time.
Amy Mergner
November 1, 2007
Although this is late in coming, I would like to express "Our Deepest Sympathies" to all of you. We were neighbors for so long, yet we really only saw each other in passing and waved. Our sons played together for many years. My family and I are very saddened by your loss. I hope Robbie is resting in peace. You both raised two beautiful sons, inside and out.
May G-D bless all of you and keep Robbie in his loving arms.
May your beautiful memories help you all each and every day.
Fondly,
Amy and Ronnie Mergner,Pleasant Hill,MO
Brett Mergner, Kansas City, MO
Stacey Mergner Weiss, Lawrenceville, NJ
all formerly of 1579 Alamitos Dr. (behind Pesschieri)
Lyam Cardenas-Reinhardt
September 20, 2007
As this anniverary came, I recalled opening a drawer with pictures back in 2001 and there was one of John and I, sitting at a table at Dana's house after a night out more than 10 years earlier. What makes that moment so unremarkable is that it was a few days before 9/11. It was unbelievable, when my brother called to tell me the news. It was crazy, I had not seen that picture in years and to have seen it, it was surreal. My brother and Phil were friends in school and graduated together and we all lived in Raintree, Lakewood. I remember him when he was little, through high school, and then later. He used to call out "big sis" when he saw me. My favorite memory of him was at a party at Danny Lindner's house. I was sitting on a bench in the foryer, he came over and sat next to me. I cant remember all that was said, but I remember laughing. Although I had not seen him in a very long time, it still felt as though it was just yesterday. My husband, Kurt, who is also from Lakewood, had had the pleasure of knowning him when he was younger, and he too remembers the laughter. Thank you John, for the fun and laughter that so many years later makes us smile when we think of you.
Susana Ferreira-Mosiello
September 12, 2007
On this 6 year anniversary I just wanted to let you know that you are never far from my mind or my heart.I miss that smile. Miss and love you everyday. Till we meet again
My love always
Susana
Shirley Rodriguez
September 11, 2007
Always in our hearts! Until we meet again my friend.
Angela Jogie
September 11, 2007
I don't think I've ever met anyone like you. You knew how to brighten someone's day with your sense of humor, charm and great laugh. Glad I got to meet you, you will never be forgotten and always be loved.
Wanda Guzman
September 10, 2007
May you rest in peace ... God Bless you always.
Dina
December 26, 2006
Happy Birthday my friend,
Rest in peace today and always....miss you, can't wait to see your smiling face again
Kristine
October 18, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 18, 2006
In memory....
Miguel Muriel Cruz
September 14, 2006
querido John:
so many people, their faces on the webpage...you know?, I am "cruz" too, my last name and I would like to say how sad I felt when all happened...We were eating in spain,launch time, watching news and I cannot forgett this day, almost six hours later we still watching tv, my wife cried, me too. From spain we will never forget.
sorry, my friend, for the horror you lived that day that we just were in family, eating.
My mother praid for you at the church next day, for all of you.
un saludo
Christopher Warren
September 11, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers go to the loved ones of John. My brother Terry was best friends with "Robbie" as kids growing up in Lakewood, I was the younger tag along. I still remember the Cruz house like it was yesterday with a well groomed lawn out front, diesel station wagon in the garage and John's room with a well made bed & two gas-powered remote control cars.
I also remember the Cruz's as having a close family with strong values (sometimes strong enough that Mrs Cruz's shoe would promptly follow an inappropriate remark) nevertheless a great family and good neighbor.
Although their lives naturally grew apart, it was many years later when Terry would see John in the train station, John as a business commuter & Terry as a NYC police officer (has since gone local to Dover Twp PD).
As fate would have it, only a few days after the event I saw John's picture inside a condo complex in Jersey City (coincidentally was visiting another childhood friend). Since that day my life will never be the same.
Our thoughts and prayers will always be with you.
- The Warren Family
Wendy Kyriakoulis
September 11, 2006
"A smile within is a laugh without" this is what John wrote for his yearbook pic..
1984 he wrote in my yearbook
"It has been fun playing on 3rd base in gym with you, especially stealing the ball from you. It was nice knowing you,have a great summer...John C"
I will never forget John and how great of a person he was..he had a contagious smile...
Proud to know you and miss you alot, wishing eternal peace to you my friend!
Kyriakoulis Family
Ricardo Cruz
September 9, 2006
For 5 years now I have served to fight an enemy who has waged war against us. My prayers are with you and yours. ...........R. Cruz USAF
Susana Ferreira
September 8, 2006
I don't even know where to begin. I can't believe that 5 years have already passed since you left us. I know that you are always shining down on me as well as walking by side. I treasure all of my memories with you deep in my heart and thank God everyday for bringing you in my life and for showing me the things that you did. I am a better person for this. I also thank you and God for bringing some "Happiness" back into my life. I hope that on this 5 aniversary of you in Heaven you know how very much you are missed and loved everyday. You will always be in my heart. All my love always. Susana
Shirley Rodriguez
August 15, 2006
If only I could wake up and hope it was all a nightmare. Five years later and I still don't see you, but I know we will meet again. Your smile, laughter and beautiful personality will never be forgotten. You will live in our hearts forever!
Rest in Peace,
Dina Ferreira
August 11, 2006
5 years ago have already passed and it seems like only yesterday you were standing in my living room joking around with me. Even now, 5 years later, not a day goes by without thinking about you. I miss you terribly and would give anything to just hear your voice or see you smile again.
Rest in peace my friend. Love you always,
Dina
Sean Everitt
September 11, 2004
Cruzie,
Just wanted to leave a note letting you know that you were in my thoughts today and each year on this date for the last three years as well as your family. I watched your name called and I will next year. Take care
Sean
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