Felipe Cruz Obituary
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Felipe Rodriguez Cruz "Papo", 64, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on May 6, 2025. Felipe was born on October 6, 1960, in Canovanas, Puerto Rico to parents Felipe Rodriguez Suarez and Maria Esther Cruz. Felipe was married to Maricelly Rodriguez. From a young age, it was clear that Felipe had an innate curiosity and a zest for life that would shape his future endeavors. Felipe pursued his education with dedication, attending Antilles High School in Ft. Buchanan, PR and thereafter the University of Arizona. Excelling in nursing medical skills, colleagues and peers admired Felipe for his dedication, cheerful sense of humor, professionalism, creativity, and unwavering commitment to his friends and family.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, as a certified EMS, a medical assistant and a professional gunsmith historian, Felipe was a person of many passions. While in high school, he was a competitive wrestler and a member of the National Guard. In 1978, Felipe participated with the Puerto Rican Archery Team at the Pan-American Games celebrated in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He was an Eagle Scout, had a deep love for the Scout Movement and the sport of professional archery. Felipe enjoyed attending state gun shows, sport trade shows and flea markets. Whether it was a task or a hobby, Felipe was a man of God and approached everything he did with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose.
Felipe is survived by Maricelly, his loving wife of 39 years, his first-born Carlos Felipe Rodriguez (Leeann Rodriguez), granddaughter Desiray Rodriguez, sister Daisy Gavalas (Ted Gavalas), niece Amalia Gavalas and his beloved parents Felipe Rodriguez Suarez and Maria Esther Cruz. Felipe is preceded in death by his son Joshua Felipe Rodriguez and his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Felipe's funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:30am at Greenhouse Church, 11200 NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida. Visitation will be held at the church from 11:00am to 11:30am. His burial will follow the funeral service at Forest Meadows Central, 4100 NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, Florida. Immediately after his burial, a celebration of Felipe's life will follow at Greenhouse Church.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Forest Meadows Cemeteries & Mausoleums.
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725 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609
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