Ricardo Cruz, Jr, age 40, of Deer Park, Texas, was a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He was called home to be with Our Lord, Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Ricardo was born to Ricardo Sr. and Palmira Cruz, January 22, 1981 in Pasadena, Texas. Ricardo was a devoted, loving family man. From the age of 16, he worked in the chemical plants as a pipefitter working his way up to a Plant Operator. He devoted over 20 years to the Oil& Gas industry.

He met his high school sweetheart, Emily Cruz, wife of 16 years, at age 14. They built their life together and had two beautiful children, Abigail Raye Cruz (age 11) and Nicholas Andrew Cruz (age 9). Ricardo loved his children unconditionally. He taught them about the word of God, he showed them patience, kindness, and love which he wanted them to share with the world. He had a bond with his children that will last for many years to come.

Ricardo was loved my so many. He had a smile that would light a room. He had jokes for days. There was very rarely a serious moment with him because he loved to make everyone laugh and smile. Ricardo was a man of few words, and let his actions set an example to live by. He would do anything to help someone in need. He was as a genuine as they come—kind and caring—an example to us all. He was truly a child of God. He will be missed by many. With all faith, we know we will be reunited in with him in the presence of the Lord one day.

Ricardo is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 16 years, Emily Cruz, his children whom he always said were his best buddies- Abigail and Nicholas; his loving parents, Ricardo Sr. and Palmira Cruz, his beautiful sister whom he loved dearly, Wendy Cruz of Pasadena, Texas, Nephews, Michael and Noah Vargas, God sons Joshua & Manuel Villanueva, Noah Reyes, and Gary Johnson, Anthony, Isaiah, and Isaac Nava. His God daughter Ariana Reyes and niece Sydni Hurt; His mother and father-law, Johnny and Darlene Hurt of Pasadena, Texas; Brother-in Law and sister-in laws-Johnny Hurt (Melinda) of Seabrook, Texas, Samantha (Tony) of Humble, Texas: Kayla Reyes (Jeanpear) of Houston, Texas, Danna Hinojosa of Houston, Texas, Ashley Hinojosa (Joshua) and John Hinojosa Jr as well as many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and extended family and friends.

Matthew 25:23

His Lord said to Him, "Well done, good and faithful Servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord."

A memorial service celebrating Ricardo's life will be held at Peevey Funeral Home, Saturday, September 11, at 2:00pm.

**Masks are Required** Out of Respect for family, please remain at home if you are sick.