Obituary published on Legacy.com by Reinke Funeral Homes - Green Bay on Aug. 14, 2025.
Adoring Mother, Unconditional Friend: Her Reward in Heaven is a Crown of Glory Maria Teresa (Cruz) Kinch, aged 55, returned to be with her Lord Jesus Christ on September 13, 2024, in
Green Bay, Wisconsin. Born on October 8, 1968, Maria dedicated her life to her family and her faith, embodying patience, humor, and gratitude throughout her years. Maria was a survivor of humble beginnings, taking immense pride in her roots and channeling her resilience into her role as a devoted mother and a hardworking Dietary Aide. Her life was a testament to her strength and her unwavering commitment to her family. Born in Laredo, Texas, she relocated her young family in 1992 (at the age of 24) in pursuit of a better life for her children. A devoted mother of 5 adult children and grandmother to 10 grandchildren aged 1 year to 16 years old, she fought a fierce battle with Stage IV Cancer for around a year after diagnosis until she succumbed to its effects. Even so, everyone saw her walk with Jesus become even more special to her during this time. Estrangements were forgotten, bonds were strengthened, and she focused on what truly mattered to her with an intense passion. We especially recognize her daughters Cevina Kinch and Darlene Perez for the tender love and care they gave Maria during her time fighting cancer and receiving medical treatment. We take comfort in knowing her battle with cancer is over and her pain is no more. Her warm loving hugs will be deeply missed. She is survived by her cherished mother Aurora Elizondo and her father Roberto Cruz, her sister Ana Hernandez, her brothers Roberto Cruz Jr., and Steven Cruz. She is also survived by her former husband and friend of 43 years, Curtis Kinch Sr., her loving children, Lillian Kinch and husband Charles (Chuck) Gray, Darlene Perez and husband Felipe Perez, Cevina Kinch, Curtis Kinch and wife Amber Kinch, and Devon Kinch and Hailey Booth. Maria was the adored grandmother to Anthony Singh, Gavin Bumbard-Kinch, Gabriel Kinch, Houston Kinch, Gabriella Kinch, Mariana Perez, Curtis Kinch Jr., Malachi Kinch, Fernando Perez, and Charles (CJ) Gray. Her calico cat, Iris, will remain within the family. She will be welcomed into heaven by her two infant sons Curtis Jeffrey Kinch Jr. and Christopher Joseph Kinch. Her children remain in Sheboygan and
Green Bay, Wisconsin while much of her extended family are in Fort Worth, Texas. Maria's hobbies included spending quality time with her children, planning meals and gatherings, uniting and keeping in touch with her Texan kin, watching scary movies, enjoying a cup of coffee and conversation, which she would drink through the entire day, and engaging in Bible devotionals. Her desire to have her growing family "in one room" was never ceasing. Mom was very silly at times, making everyone laugh until they cried. She could quickly change everyone's mood with her free spirit. Her faith was an integral part of her life, praying to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ brought her immense peace and fulfillment. Maria's life was a beacon of love and faith, and she will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, humor, strength, resilience, and love will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. Her loved ones will think of her when they hear birds singing, witness a breathtaking sunset or the vibrant color of the leaves in fall, her favorite season. Her most treasured attributes that all her loved ones could count on her for are reflected in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: Love is patient. Love is kind... A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 at Legacy Funeral Chapels & Gathering Center (838 S. Fisk Street, Green Bay) beginning at 10:00 PM until the time of services at 12:30 PM. Officiating at the services will be Rev. Ted Hendrix. A procession will follow to Woodlawn Cemetery, Green Bay. A memorial fund will be established in Maria's name. Expressions of sympathy and memories may be shared with Maria's family on her tribute page at www.legacycarepartners.com.
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