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BORN
1936
DIED
2024
Cruz Sanchez Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Cruz Sanchez
Renée Stout
March 22, 2025
Cruz was a good friend of my dear, late friend, artist Jeffrey Cook, which was how we met 30 years ago, and together those two provided me with life long memories of my experiences and adventures in New Orleans, my spiritual home. Cruz was generous and his spirit and shop contributed such a creative, celebratory vibe to the city. My heart aches knowing that such a kind, funny soul has left this plain when we need that kind of energy now, more than ever, But his and Jeffrey´s presences will always be felt whenever I´m there. Rest in peace, Cruz.
CiCi
February 16, 2025
RIP Kruz - you befriended and helped many people during your stay in this world. Thank you for love, laughter, generosity, and knowledge. You were a pioneer who helped revitalize the lower French Quarter. Condolences to family for their loss.
Amber Rodas
November 22, 2024
Cruz was such a special part of our lives. When I visited New Orleans, we would always visit the shop and get some unique thing to bring home. Later, when we lived here we would visit Cruz and Dee with our babies, friends. Everyone I know has a bedspread in their house from Cruz. We looked forward to our visits for your kindness and to be around you both. Dee, we miss seeing you both so much. Love always to you and Cruz!
The Rodas Family
stacy schmitt
November 16, 2024
A huge thank you to Dee for being such a caring sister to Kruz, and for keeping the store open for as long as she did . She and he were always so welcoming. The photo is me, with godchild, in 1978 wearing my first purchase from Kruz. In the early 90's, I started bringing my own son, Benjamin, to the store. On our first visit, Kruz asked his name and remarked with a smile, "Ahhh, Ben-ya-meen, Son of Yasmin." He always remembered Ben's name and greeted us both warmly on every visit. Years after Ben stopped accompanying me to the store, Kruz asked after him. A generous soul, Kruz celebrated his birthdays by hiring performers and offering rich, chocolate cake to all who came by. May his memory be a blessing.
Jessica Ruby Radcliffe
November 15, 2024
He was a kind friend.
Darlene H Olivo
November 11, 2024
I met Cruz through my late sister Deardra Hingle. She had a number of his Indian printed scarves and bedspreads. We'd visit his shop and be carried away by the sights and scents. He was a wonderful person, friend to all, a haven for those needing some love. I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends. May his memory be an eternal blessing.
Karen
November 4, 2024
Cruz was a wonderful human being. As a young woman (in the early 80s) I found myself homeless in New Orleans after being abandoned by my ex-husband. Cruz helped me get on my feet and provided work and friendship. He was kind without expecting anything in return. I have so many wonderful memories of our friendship. Folk dancing, playing drums, and much more. When I married again Cruz escorted to stand by the minister and my future husband. We moved away from New Orleans and we didn't see each other much. That didn't make a difference as we occasionally talked on the phone or visited when my husband and I visited New Orleans. He will always remain in my heart.
Molly "Santina"
November 3, 2024
I first met Kruz when I belly danced at his shop back in January 2014, at his annual Kruzfest. He said that I "took him back to Egypt" and that it was such a treat to watch me dance. He invited me to dance at his shop several times after that, and I would sit and visit with him, whenever I went into the quarter. I will miss those times and I will miss you Kruz. I´m sorry I never mailed the photo I had blown up for you. Until we meet again.
Hazell Boyce-Schumacher
November 2, 2024
Kruz was so very special. He was intelligent and well read. Often, I read books that he recommended. Conversations with Kruz could venture into many dimensions. His knowledge and experiences were vast. He had a smile that lit up his face and said welcome to all. I met Kruz when he rented his first shop from me on Barracks Street in the 1970's. I loved him.
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