Cruz Cartagena

Cruz Cartagena was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico. On Sunday, April 25, 2021, surrounded by his loving family, he passed away at the age of 90 of natural causes. Cruz is survived by his wife of 67 years Esther Cartagena, his children Gil (Lorena), Sophia (Gonzalo) and Eric (Emilia). He was a kind and loving grandfather to: Violette, Livy (Cris), Caroline (Jonathan), Kristin (Andrew), Serina, Elise, Zarek and Tavek. He was blessed with his great grandchildren: Freyja, James and Remy. He is also survived by his sisters: Virginia Suarez (Jesus), and Benilda Cartagena. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Horacio. Cruz proudly served in the United States Army for over 26 years. Master Sergeant (MSG) Cartagena was a member of the Puerto Rico’s 65th Infantry Regiment, “The Borinqueneers”, during the Korean War that received a U.S. Congressional Gold Metal honoring their service. He was wounded in action in December 1950 and received the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device and the Purple Heart for his actions in combat. His other awards and decorations include: The Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, Expert Rifleman M-14 and M-16 Badge, and First-Class Missile Badge. After retiring from the U.S. Army, Cruz was employed for 30 years in the Federal Civil Service and received the U.S. Army Superior Civilian Service Award. He was adamant about never retiring! He continued on and was a lifelong learner. He was well read, loved baseball, performed with a Senior Adult Program Musical Ensemble, practiced Tai Chi, gardened, but above all he was loved music! From a young age he would serenade Esther. He composed, studied, and played all his life. Friends and family always enjoyed listening to him sing and play his guitar. His favorite saying was “Tranquillo” and this is exactly how he chose to live his life. He learned to live life in peace. He will be dearly missed by all who loved and respected him. Visitation will be from 1:00 – 4:00 PM, with Rosary at 2:00 PM, on Thursday, May 6, 2021 at Sunset Funeral Homes- Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass. Final Honors will be limited to family only at 1:30 PM, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Please visit online registry at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net.