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Eric Cruz Obituary

ERIC CRUZ VIERA Eric Cruz will al ways be re membered by his family and friends for his amazing ability to make people laugh and his generous kind ness. He passed away unex pectedly on Friday 04 May 2007 at home in Viera, FL. Eric was born on 5 April 1965 in New York City to Dr. Alex Cruz Sr. and Isolina Cruz. As a young child, his family moved to Gainesville, FL, where his father completed his PhD in Biology. Exploring the swamps with his father and younger brother Alex, Eric began a life-long fascina tion with animals. At the age of eight, Eric moved to Boulder, CO with his family. Here, Eric started giving reptile presenta tions to local schools where he would share his love of snakes with wide-eyed and fascinated children. He graduated from Longmont Senior High School. Eric attend ed the University of Colorado, studying biology, but as his in terests and talents evolved, he pursued a degree in hairstyling. The culmination of Erics educa tion and efforts was Solutions, a former hair salon in Cocoa Beach. From the way he an swered the phone, Its a beauti ful day at Solutions to how he made each customer feel beau tiful when they walked in Solutions was a happy place. You were likely to run into his adoring grandma Maria Cruz (Pimbo) or one of his aunts. In recent years, Eric was liv ing in Viera, with his mom and visiting Puerto Rico. He had de veloped an interest in photogra phy and his work showed much promise. Eric was still making people laugh, exemplified by his famous April Fools phone calls. Eric is survived by his moth er, Isolina Cruz of Viera; his fa ther, Dr. Alex Cruz of Boulder, CO; his younger brother, Alex Cruz Jr. of MN; and his younger brother and sister Nick and Isa bella Cruz of CO. His extended loving family and large network of friends is spread all over the US, especially in NY, FL, CO, and Puerto Rico. Eric will be dearly missed. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 10, 2007 from 6 - 9 p.m. and Friday, May 11, 2007, 8 - 10 a.m. at Brevard Memorial Funeral Home. A Fu neral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 11th at Blessed Sacrament Church in Cocoa. Brevard Memorial Fu neral Home is entrusted with ar rangements. Call 636-3720.

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Published by FloridaToday from May 9 to May 10, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Eric Cruz

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Lindsay Unks

August 24, 2011

Dear Cruz Family,
I was so sorry to hear about your loss of Eric. So many of my happy memories from my freshman year at CU are connected to him. His friends from the 5th floor at Stearns West fondly called him by the nickname of "UB." He made me laugh so hard so many times that it felt like I had done 100s of sit-ups! Dancing with him at The Express was a blast. I remember visiting him at Exotic Aquatics. The world has lost a unique and vibrant man.
With much sympathy,
Lindsay Unks

Patrick Atencio

May 31, 2007

I am so saddened by the death of Eric. Since the day I met him in 7th grade P.E. class, he has been a tremendous, loyal friend. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to see him a couple of summers ago while on a business trip to Orlando. He took me and my wife all around...alligator sight seeing on an airboat, eating alligator, visiting the theme parks, dining out, etc. Having never met my wife, you would have thought he had known her for several years, as well. He was one of those individuals that never met a stranger. More recently, I had just spoken to him a few days before I learned of his death. He was so excited for the news I shared with him. We talked about him coming to Colorado for a visit or me going to Puerto Rico. His personality, laugh and smile were infectious. Wherever he was at, he was the life of the gathering or party. Being a mortician, we often talked about my business and some of my experiences. Eric would always say that when it was your time to go...it was your time, regardless of age or anything else. I always disagreed and still do. Eric was way too young. I am grateful, however, that I was his friend and I have so many great memories. Just to name a few...whenever we had a substitute teacher in spanish class, we would pretend we didn't speak a word of english. Another time Eric was being threatened by another student in Junior High. My brother and I gave him a few tips on how to fight. We gave him a few boxing lessons in our basement to which Eric put to good use. He eventually had the confrontation with that person and literally dropped him with one punch. Again, I have so many great memories of Eric. I miss him already. My thoughts and prayers are with his Mother, Father, and Brother and his entire family.

Michelle Wetzbarger

May 28, 2007

Hello,
Well news travels slow here in Colorado. Today is May 26th and some us from Longmont High are just now getting this sad news. I was a neighbor of Erics and I wish he could have come to our reunions. I miss him and I will remember all the times he "TP"ed my house. I will remember the time he had me plucking chickens in his garage. I will remember that he was the best dancer in the whole school and every girl would die to dance with him. He and I would practice in his basement. I believe we took him snow skiing for the first time. We had a blast. There are too many memories to mention. I wish I could have seen him just one more time. My thoughts are with all of you.
Love Michelle Moran.(maiden name)

Kimberly Ann Kehoe

May 24, 2007

My deepest sympathy to Erics family and friends. He will always be remembered for his beautiful smile and the wonderful laughs we shared. His family is in my prayers.

Kristen Michaud

May 24, 2007

So today I heard the news about this great man that had blessed my life passing away. I have know Eric for many years, he was my childhood, teenage, and young adult, hairdresser. I remember the day he opened the salon and I remember the day he sold it. I will always remember his smile and great hugs that he would give me every time I entered the salon. He truly was a living angel here on earth. I send my love and best wishes to the family. He will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. I will love him always and I will always remember his smile and open arms of love.

Alex Cruz, Jr

May 16, 2007

Eric Mass Reading by Alex Cruz, Jr.
11 May 2007


Thank you all for being here to remember the sparkling joy that was Eric. On behalf of my family, I will try and encapsulate the essence of Eric’s spirit in a few words.

Eric was a son, a grandson, a big brother, a nephew, and a cousin—but most of all he was a good friend, someone that could make you laugh at any moment. His carefree generosity, bigger-than-life personality, and great sense of humor captivated everyone he met.

Twinkling green eyes, dimples, and a smile that knew no limits is what you saw when you looked at Eric. Mom told me people would stop her in the store because Eric was such a beautiful baby. Maybe that’s where he first got a taste of the spotlight. He was a natural entertainer, from his Donald Duck impersonations as a child to singing wherever he found a piano as an adult—there was always an audience for Eric.

A beautiful complement to his personality was Eric’s deep fascination and love of nature. My dad shared with me the following story. Eric, not more than 5 came across a snake, which he quickly caught. Eric noticed a young family nearby and he ran to them with the snake thinking of course, they’d be interested in seeing it. The family saw Eric coming at them with the snake and ran away, but Eric chased after them, still thinking that everyone loved snakes as much as him.

Now, as the ones left behind, we are left to chase our memories of Eric and try to make sense where there seems to be none. We can find some comfort in the knowledge that Eric is at peace. At 42, his life was cut tragically short—but we are still alive with this precious gift that Eric no longer has. Continue to love your life while giving yourself time to grieve in the way that brings you the most comfort. There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye,

How do I express the depth of loss that Eric’s death has brought upon us all? My parents who Eric adored are devastated. Eric was their firstborn. My father wrote these words for me to share.

When I see a butterfly flitting among flowers, a bird feeding its young, a lizard displaying on a trunk, a tree frog singing after a spring rain, or the sun’s rays reflecting the brilliance of a fish—a smile will brighten my face for I have seen my son Eric.

My mom wrote these words to Eric on a piece of paper that she handed to me on Wednesday.

Eric, I miss you so much. You left me so soon. Someday, we’ll be together again. You’ll be in my heart forever.

Forever. That’s why we are all here, to ensure that Eric’s memory goes on forever. You are his mom, his dad, his brothers, his sister, his titis, his uncles, his cousins, and his friends. You won’t forget his crazy laugh, his fascination with nature, his generosity, his kindness, and especially the way he loved— Eric’s heart was his greatest asset.

Maureen Pace

May 15, 2007

My deepest sympathy goes out to Isolina Cruz and her family. I knew Eric for a short time. In that time has became very close to my children who looked up to him. He taught my daughter how to ride her bike and my son how to remodel all areas of a house. He made us laugh. I got to spend some time with him in puerto rico. He will be missed so much. My daughter says he is an angel now. That indeed he is. God Bless the Cruz family that the pain we all share will ease. Eric will always be in our hearts.

Bianca

May 15, 2007

I Worked with Eric for a short time.
He didnt know it but he was my only
friend for awhile.. Eric made me feel good about myself. He was kind to people. He was the first person in a long time to make me laugh. He never asked for anything from anyone,he just wanted people to feel good.His only interest was making
women look fabulous. His friendliness and talent with hair inspired me in so many ways. I
am proud to have known him.

John Reid

May 14, 2007

My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to everyone else whose lives Eric touched. I became acquainted with Eric when he was a house-mate/tenant of mine in Cape Canaveral. He was very quickly embraced by my family due to his warmth and generous spirit. Also, his artistry with hair was second to none, with a legendary eye for detail. When my sister was wedded, Eric blessed our family by contributing his masterful talent and graciously attending the ceremony as a dear friend. Despite my not having seen Eric for over a decade, I remember him fondly and he will be sorely missed.

Nataline Cruz

May 14, 2007

Our deepest sympathies go out to Eric's family. He had such a great influence on our lives, especially when we were young. My brothers still talk about all of his snakes and lizards, and have their own collection, even now that they themselves are grown. Our family is devasted at this loss. We will always remember him and his light. Nataline, Silvano, and Kenneth Jr. Cruz

Roberto Cruz

May 13, 2007

I regret not having the opportunity of getting to know my cousin Eric better. From the few times we did meet he always left us with a smile on our faces. By means of the family, I always knew of his great sense of humor & of his even greater heart. If any one person left an impression on people's lives, it is Eric. You will be truly missed by everyone who's lives you touched. To Alex, Isolina and my cousins. Que Dios los bendiga y los acompañe siempre. Con mucho amor. Robbie, Diana e hijos.

Catherine Soto- Rivera

May 11, 2007

My thoughts and deepest sympathy too his mother Isolina Cruz and his father Dr. Alex Cruz. Sr, brother Alex, Nick, and sister Isabella Cruz. Eric was a compasionate, loyal, trusting and big hearted person. Can't believe that I am using the word was. Eric made his presence known to everyone. His love for family, the human spirit, and for animals should be an example to us all. My family and I had the privilage to spend Feb-Apr with him in Puerto Rico. Getting his happy phone calls at 830am asking if we are going to the beach. At the beach every day snokling with the kids, ( who by the way took the passing of their cousin Eric very hard). We spent the last of his days making him laugh, playing playstation, watching kids movies,(Happy Feet) buying his chickens, and celebrating his birthday in Puerto Rico for the first time. Eric also helped set up his twin cousins 11th birthday party Alizea and Angelica on April 16th. Where he had such a wonderful time playing volleyball with the kids, helping with the pinata, and playing with the dogs. I must say my cousin Eric will be greatly missed by all. Eric was always at my mother and father's house Ricardo and Elsa Soto. Where he would make them laugh so much and just spend time with them. My mom loved cooking for him and just putting a smile on his face. I remember when he helped surprise my dad (when my parents lived in Rockledge) and flew my grandmother in from Puerto Rico. That was such a thoughtful and unselfish act on his part. But that is Eric, Beautiful inside and out. I thank God for everyday that he blessed us with Eric's presence. You will always be missed and loved.



Love Always,

Tito,Cathy,Alizea,Angelica,Dyanna,
and Jr. Rivera. Ricardo and Elsa Soto.

Adria Pollard

May 11, 2007

I am truly sorry about Eric's death.I miss him alot and wish this never happened.Being able to say goodbye was really sad but it helped put closer. I will always have Eric in my heart and will always be praying for him and my family. He was a great person and an even greater cousin.

Adria Pollard

May 11, 2007

Eric will be greatly missed. I remember how he could always make everybody laugh.He was a really great cousin and I will miss him alot.He will always be in my heart and prayers.

Amy (Phetterplace) Mark

May 11, 2007

My deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences to Eric's friends and family. He will be missed by many.

Emily Silverman

May 10, 2007

Dearest Alex and family, All my thoughts and sympathies are with you during this sad time. Deepest condolences and love.

Luz Vega-rivera

May 10, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Angie Vega

May 10, 2007

Sorry i was their for a brief time. Eric will me missed by all. Eric will always be in my heart.

Linda Suits

May 10, 2007

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Brandy Starkey

May 10, 2007

Eric will be greatly missed. He made all those around him smile and his laugh was infectious. His family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Gloria Medina-Major

May 10, 2007

I am not sure if you remember me but I am Mike & Elena's daughter Gloria. I was so saddened to hear the news of Eric today. I remember him from when you lived in Longmont when we were younger and he was always so funny and such a gentleman. Even though he is gone, remember that he will remain in your hearts forever. Hang on to those precious memories of him and in the knowing that you will be together again one day! I know it is easier said than done but just trust in God and your family and friends in the days ahead. Take care & may God Bless you and your family. Love, Gloria Medina-Major

Jenny Jones

May 10, 2007

My condolences to the family. Eric will be greatly missed by all and I will never forget his laughter.

Esther Figueroa

May 10, 2007

I'm so sorry I wasn't able to stay for the service, though I'm glad I was able to be there with the family. Eric will be greatly missed, he was loved so much.

Henry Silverman

May 10, 2007

Alex: We send you our deepest condolences and best wishes on your brother's death.
Ann and Henry Silverman

Chris Guillemot

May 10, 2007

How does one encapsulate the essence of Eric’s spirit in a paragraph or two? Eric’s heart was his great asset. His carefree generosity, bigger-than-life personality and great sense of humor won him many friends. Through a common respect for all living things and knowledge of the natural world (which he enthusiastically shared with all who would listen), he forged an especially close bond with his brother Alex. And I know how much he adored his Mom and Dad.

His sudden passing makes it all the more difficult to come to terms with. The sorrow that has engulfed those of us who knew him well is deep. Nothing, not even time or distance can totally erase the pain of losing a son, a child, a brother, or a friend. But in times like this, we must remember that the process of letting go is far more difficult for those who are left behind than for the ones who have gone on. The ribbon of Eric’s life has been cut, yet let us remember him for the difference he made to the lives he touched.

Katie Stevens

May 10, 2007

"To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die." May your hearts be filled with joyful memories of Eric.

I am so sorry for your loss.

Edwin and Dick van Aartsen-Silverman

May 10, 2007

Our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with you.

Miguel Medina

May 9, 2007

Lina y toda la familia Cruz, nuestro mas sentido pesame, elevamos una oracion al cielo por alma de Eric , estamos con ustedes. La Familia Medina, De longmont Colo,

Karen Apodaca-Bryant

May 9, 2007

Dear Cruz Family, So sad for your loss. I met Eric in the 80's. He might of left Colorado but he was always on my mind! I would always remember the great times we would have. We were always filled with laughter and joy when we were with Eric. I and my son will deeply miss you. I lost my Grandma Jenny last year so she is in Heaven reaching her hand out to Eric.{She had met Eric.} So My Dear Eric is in Heaven making my Grandma laugh. My heart and prayers go out to you all. Love Karen Apodaca-Bryant, Chris Bryant and Vince Apodaca

Gloria Acevedo

May 9, 2007

To Alex and family,

At this time, we would like to express our most sincere condolences on the passing of your son Eric. Our prayers are with you and the family.

Sincerely,
Gloria, Judy and Juanito Acevedo

Linda Nicholson

May 9, 2007

I certainly had some great laughs with Eric. He was warm and loving and so entertaining. To his family, he spoke of you often. I bet every visit he told me a story about his family. He loved all of you so very much. Eric may you find the peace and contenment you have been searching for so long now. You life has added to mine and I thank you and your loving parents for this.
Much Love ,
Linda Nicholson

Sean Slater

May 9, 2007

I knew Eric through my best friend Sterling Walker who has moved on as well. I just wanted to say it was a pleasure to meet Eric and heard many great stories from Sterl about their times hangin out, I want to give my blessings to the family from myself and Sterl. God bless.

Elaine Cruz

May 9, 2007

To the Cruz family,
I'm so sorry for your loss.
I was saddened to hear about Eric's passing. I hadn't seen him in years but what stands out in my mind is his wonderful sense of humor. ...May he rest in peace. God Bless,
Elaine Cruz (Pito & Margo's daughter)

Rhonda

May 9, 2007

Eric will certainly be missed and leave a tremendous void in Cocoa Beach for the people that loved and cared about him. Fly like a butterfly Eric!

Nancy Adomeit

May 9, 2007

To Alex and your family,
I am so sad to hear of your loss. A friend of mine shared this story with me...
In the bottom of an old pond lived some grubs who could not understand why none of their group ever came back after crawling up the lily stems to the top of the water. They promised each other that the next one who was called to make the upward climb would return and tell what had happened to him. Soon one of them felt an urgent impulse to seek the surface; he rested himself on the top of a lily pad and went through a glorious transformation which made him a dragonfly with beautiful wings. In vain he tried to keep his promise. Flying back and forth over the pond, he peered down at his friends below. Then he realized that even if they could see him they would not recognize such a radiant creature as one of their number.
The fact that we cannot see our friends or communicate with them after the transformation which we call death is no proof that they cease to exist.

Melissa Cuzzone

May 9, 2007

Eric made a huge impact in my life and gave me a gift and a part of him i can see and remember each day, Hector his African Grey, we will miss him but always will have him in our hearts.

Amanda Wilson

May 9, 2007

For Erics family he was one special angel and we loved him dearly. I worked for him at Solutions and enjoyed every minute of every day with him. God has a special angel with him now.

Deanna Croft

May 9, 2007

I'll never forget how funny you were and how you could always make me laugh. You will be missed dearly! Rest in Peace now. Love Always, Deanna

Stina Rodriguez

May 8, 2007

Para La Familia Cruz,
Today, my heart is broken for the loss of dear Eric. I am deeply sorry for this pain and great loss. I do not have words that will help anything, but my memories of how much Eric has meant to you, Alex, will endure time. You will always have Eric with you no matter what comes. I wish you as much peace as is possible, and I hope that somewhere in the tears will also be the reflection of Eric's smile, humor and vibrancy. During this time of deep sadness, you are all in my heart and prayers. Love, Stina

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