Jose A. Cruz

Jose A. “Chepo” Cruz was called home to our Lord on Saturday, April 13th, 2024. Born October 2nd, 1943 to Jose Soledad and Minerva, Chepo, to all who knew him, was a quiet man of few words, but a unique and gentle individual who made a lasting impression on those around him. Jose was drafted into the US Army in 1965. During the Vietnam War era, he served in Germany as a Combat Medic Specialist. Jose married Elena in July 1977 and raised 4 children. A provider, by nature, he made certain to offer stability and a loving home for his family. Jose pursued a higher education at MATC, where he studied HVAC, Electrician, Welding and Photography. His additional skills equipped him to be a decorated Maintenance Mechanic at Cargill Meat Solutions and a skilled handyman and photographer at home. Jose’s favorite pastimes include spending time with his family, traveling, gardening, “treasure hunting”, and working on home improvement projects. He was a lover of music, including listening to his favorite genres such as rock & roll, oldies and blues. He also enjoyed playing many musical instruments, including the piano and guitar. Jose worked at Cargill Meat Solutions for nearly 40 years, and retired when the plant closed in July 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Soledad and Minerva; brother, Juan; and brother, Danny. Jose is survived by his wife of 47 years, Elena; his children Lorena (Jose), Elliott, Nadia (Jimmy), Lincoln (Elise); his grandchildren, Christopher (Alanah), Tony, Desiree (Eddie), Mariah, Alyssa, Sofia and Rosemary; great grandchildren, Micah and Cielo. Jose is also survived by his brothers Jaime (Maria), Eddie (Sherry); sister, Linda Duran (Lazaro), and sister in law Lupe. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to Zilber Family Hospice for their extraordinarily compassionate care in his last days. Honorable mention to Fresenius Kidney Care for his life saving dialysis treatments since 2013, and to his care team at Aurora St. Lukes Medical Center. Our husband, daddy, and grandpa will be greatly missed. We thank you for your prayers, condolences and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Aurora Zilber Family Hospice, 1155 Honey Creek Parkway, Wauwatosa, WI 53213. Visitation Wednesday, April 17 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at the ROZGA-WALLOCH CHAPEL. Additional Visitation Thursday, April 18 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM at the ROZGA-WALLOCH CHAPEL followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM. Entombment at Arlington Park Cemetery to follow. Rozga Funeral & Cremation Services Rozga-Walloch Chapel 4309 S. 20th St. Milwaukee, WI 53221

Jose A. Cruz

April 13, 2024