Obituary of Godofredo Cruz, Jr.

Godofredo "Fred" Cruz, Jr., aged 76, of Joliet, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, January 17, 2025, surrounded by his cherished family.

Born on April 18, 1948, in Weslaco, Texas, Fred was the beloved son of Godofredo Sr. and Josefina (Marmolejo) Cruz.

Fred devoted his life to service, shaping countless lives as a teacher, counselor, and coach within Joliet Public School District #86 and Joliet Township High School District #204. He was a cornerstone of Central's Outreach Program, offering unwavering support to students and families alike.

Above all, Fred was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Known fondly as Fred, Papi, Honey, and Fito, he deeply adored his wife of 51 years, Rosalinda, with whom he shared countless adventures. He was a protector in every sense of the word, steadfast in his dedication to his family. His legacy as a father was defined by his generosity, humor, and unwavering support, while as a grandfather, he embraced his role with grace, love, and pride.

Fred’s love for music was woven into the fabric of his life, enriching both his own soul and the lives of those around him. Whether it was the lively beats of his favorite tunes or the heartfelt melodies of classic songs, music was a constant source of joy and connection. He often filled his home with its rhythms, creating memories with his family as they danced, sang, or simply listened together. Music gave him peace, brought laughter, and provided the soundtrack for countless cherished moments. For Fred, music was not merely a pastime; it was a way of life, a reminder to find beauty in every note and harmony in the world around him.

Fred treasured the simple joys of life: family gatherings, basketball and baseball games, Westerns and action movies, and cheering for his beloved Chicago Bulls and Cubs. He celebrated the Cubs’ World Series victory as a lifelong fan and shared his passions with his grandchildren, bringing laughter and joy with his quick wit and unexpected one-liners.

An avid gardener, Fred cultivated not only a beautiful yard but also deep and lasting connections with those he loved. He found immense joy in family vacations, especially road trips, and maintained a lifelong appreciation for classic cars. These moments reflected his enduring zest for life and devotion to those he held dear.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife, Rosalinda (Miranda) Cruz; his four daughters, Teresa (Joseph) Hernandez, Yolanda (Jeremy) Hossack, Maribel (Eric) Smith, and Cecilia Cruz; his adoring grandchildren, Israel and Elsie Hernandez, Jordy and Hayden Hossack, and Ariana and Greyson Eaton. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Estella (Chano) Guzman, Jaime (Guillermina) Cruz, John (Nancy) Cruz,  Bertha (Teodoro) Rosales, Gustavo Cruz, Lupe (Petra) Cruz and Raul (Luz) Cruz; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Corey Smith; his parents, Godofredo and Josefina Cruz; his sisters, Maria Patricia DelToro and Gloria Cruz; his brother, Arturo Cruz; and his nephews, Jose Rosales and Miguel Cruz.

Fred’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. His dedication to family, his passion for teaching, his boundless sense of humor, and his profound love of music leave an indelible mark on those he touched.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Time of Sharing at 7:30 p.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home in Joliet. Funeral services will take place on Friday, January 24, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, proceeding to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com

Fred Cruz, Jr. will forever be remembered as a man of integrity, compassion, and unwavering love.