Roger Cruz (1943-2021)

CRUZ, LORAILLERE

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 8/24/2021 at 08:39:10

ROGER CRUZ

Cedar Rapids

Roger Cruz, 78, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha, following a short but valiant battle with lung cancer. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, is caring for Roger and his family.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Elizabeth; children, Roger Charles Cruz, Claire and Hany Mahi, and Blaise Hermsen; former daughter-in-law, Margaret Cruz; grandchildren, Cameron, Trinity, Genevieve, Giovanni, Colette and Sebastien; sister, Helen Bullock; Elizabeth's family; many extended family members; numerous friends, including Mirela and Oather Taylor; and special cat companion, Zola.

Roger Cruz was born July 14, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas, to Peter and Petra Cruz. He grew up in the San Antonio area, then attended Texas A&M, where he earned his bachelor's. Roger then went to Columbia to receive his master's degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked as an electrical engineer for over 30 years in the Texas area before moving to Iowa to work for Rockwell Collins.

Roger met Elizabeth Loraillere while they both attended a work party in Houston. They connected on many levels and spent the past 16 cherished years together. They enjoyed traveling the world, especially to France and Canada each year. Roger was a talented and passionate gardener and an amazing cook. Roger was a skilled racquetball player, and enjoyed playing on the Rockwell team with his colleagues.

Most importantly, Roger loved life. He was a kind man, optimistic through every trial, and endlessly protective of those he loved. He will be dearly missed by his beloved family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Grant; and two brothers, Albert and Hector.

Please share your support and memories with Roger's family on his tribute wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries.