Angie Cruz's Obituary
Our mom Angie Cruz passed away Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at home in Escondido surrounded by her family. She was born on October 3, 1932 at home in Anaheim, California to Elpidio and Antonia Arce. Mom began her career in the citrus industry with her mother Antonia Castillo Arce. At age 14, Mom began packing on a part-time basis alongside her mother at the Placencia Orange Growers Association packing house. By her 18th birthday Mom was a skilled veteran, but never reached the campiona level of her mother, who even with rheumatoid arthritis, could pack 100 boxes per nine hour day. She began a new career at Pacific Bell in Anaheim until marrying and moving to Escondido in 1960. Mom, Dad and Tata began the business Richard P. Cruz Farm Labor Contractors from the ground up, mom once again committed her talents to the citrus industry. Mom and the Cruz name were well known and respected in the agricultural field throughout North County and Riverside County.
Mom had a strong commitment to hard work and family, which was known to all who came in contact with her.
She is proceeded in death by her husband, Richard Paul Cruz Sr., and her son, Richard Paul Cruz Jr. She is survived by her Daughters, Elizabeth Murphy, and Alison Ruppert; Son-in-laws Rodney Murphy and Robert Ruppert; Grandchildren, Destiny and Desiree Ruppert, Courtney Herrera and Ryyan Murphy; eight Great grandchildren. and Brother, John Arce.
Mom was energetic, loving, hilarious, spunky and a force to be reckoned with. She wasn’t shy. When you were in her company, you were mesmerized by her charm and her 2 ton attitude in a 5 foot body.
What’s your fondest memory of Angie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Angie?
Share a story where Angie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Angie you’ll never forget.
How did Angie make you smile?
