Nathaniel Jesus Cruz

Nathaniel Jesus Cruz was born on May 8, 1999 in Phoenix, AZ, baptized at St. Simon and Jude, and departed us on February 17, 2025 at the age of 25. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and courage.
Nathaniel was known for his kind spirit, infectious joy, sharp wit, and quirky sense of humor. He had a way of bringing light to every room he entered. His jokes were one-of-a-kind. Once you understood his humor, you couldn't help but smile. Nathaniel cherished spending time with family and friends, playing video games, working out, and indulging in anime. Family gatherings were his stage. Nathaniel would surprise everyone with his wild dance moves or unforgettable karaoke performances. All eyes would turn to him, soon followed by laughter, and then applause.
Nathaniel graduated from Agua Fria High School in 2017 with a full scholarship to the University of Arizona. He aspired to a degree in neuroscience, but soon after changed his career when he committed to the US Army in February 2020. In October 2020, Nathaniel deployed to Afghanistan as a Combat Medic in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
Nathaniel was a patriot. More important than this, Nathaniel should always be remembered as a hero. While his time as a Combat Medic was short, Nathaniel sacrificed no less for God and Country than any man who has ever died in battle in service of his fellow soldiers and nation.
Above all Nathaniel is a beloved son, brother, grandson, tio, nephew, cousin, and friend. He is survived by his parents, Joe and Tatiana, Matt and Nancy; sisters, Isabella, Athena, and Madison; brothers, Aidan and Sam; and niece, Isa.
For now, we will take our solace in knowing Nathaniel has found peace. But, we will look forward to the day when we are able to sing and dance with him again.
Services commemorating Nathaniel will be held on March 6th, 2025. Church services will be held at St. Simon and Jude Cathedral at 10:00AM located at 6351 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85017. Following the mass, memorial services will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 12:30PM located at 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024. Following the memorial service, a reception will be held at American Legion Post 41 located at 715 S 2nd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nathaniel, please visit our floral store.