Santos Andrade Cruz Jr.

Santos Andrade Cruz Jr was born in Donna, Texas on July 22nd, 1951 to Santos Cruz and Marie Andrede Cruz. He met his wife and best friend, Yolanda Cruz, at the age of 17. They married in 1970 and Santos loved her endlessly and unconditionally until her passing in 2019. In their 49 years together they raised 4 sons and helped raise 1 godson as their own.

Santos was reunited with the love of his life on July 25th, 2025 surrounded by his family. Santos always greeted family and friends with a smile and some kind of funny annectdote, especially his grandchildren. He had relationships with all of his siblings and in-laws throughout his life and many close friends who he still kept in contact with. In his early years Santos worked long hours to provide for his family occasionally bringing his boys along to learn various skills. As a seasoned mechanic he enjoyed classic cars and trucks with a fondness for the vehicles of his youth. He led by example and encouraged his sons to strive for greater horizons without sacrificing the bond of their family. He was a constant in the lives of his loved ones and was always available to chat or lend an ear.

Santos was willing to grow as a person and adapt to the circumstances of his life. In his later years he enjoyed surfing the internet whether that be touring cities through YouTube or commenting "Hugs and GB" on the posts of his family and friends to spread some love. Santos was the kind of man who would take in someone who needed a helping hand and was willing to make a new friend with anyone who he felt a connection with. He loved his late wife, sons, daughters (in law), grandchildren and great grandchildren with his whole heart and would affectionately share nicknames or catch phrases with each of them.

Santos' legacy lives on through his four sons, Micheal (Shelley) Cruz, Adam (Yolanda) Cruz, Israel (Danielle) Cruz and Jesus (Valarie) Cruz. His 10 grandchildren, Marcos, Aaron, Madeline, Brookelyn, Darian, Miley, Maddox, Caden, Elliana, Caleb and 2 great-granddaughters Kennedy and Estefania. His Godson, Joe (Sylvia) Herrera and Elizabeth. He is preceded in death by his wife Yolanda Munoz Cruz, grandson Michael Leonard, and 2 granddaughters Analicia and Ava.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025 at St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel, 2541 Earl Rudder Fwy, College Station, TX 77845.