Juan Ramon Cruz Reyes, 79 years old of Manati, Puerto Rico, passed away on September 29th, 2025 at 4am in Passaic, New Jersey. He is finally at rest after a long battle with many ailments and illnesses following a Traumatic Brain Injury. He worked and retired after many years as a Real Estate Professional in Central Florida, and later pursued an education and career in the culinary arts. He regarded volunteering and helping those in need of utmost importance as a Young Lord in New Jersey in young adulthood, serving in many soup kitchens throughout his adulthood, and cooking for Meals on Wheels during his retirement.

Number seven of fifteen children to Jose "Pepe" Cruz and Julia Reyes, family was very meaningful to him. From crab fishing to deep sea diving, from singing Christmas Carols to playing the congas and guiro at Parrandas and family gatherings, Juan took up and loved many hobbies throughout his life, most of which could be found outdoors. He was an avid cross country runner and was proud to have completed the New York Marathon twice. He will be fondly remembered by many as "Mr. Cruz, always seen running on Pleasant Hill Road", where he would often spend his mornings.

He is survived by his immediate family of four children, Juan R. Cruz Jr, Felicita Cruz, Maria Cruz and Julissa Cruz with son in law Orlando Tielves; eight grandchildren: Angelica, Frances Yareliz, Julian, Jose Luis, Juan, Benicio, Isabella and Santiago; and five great grandchildren: Nadia, Brandon, Brandon Jr., Jaziel and Naseliz,  as well as many more Family and close friends spanning throughout the East Coast and Puerto Rico.

His family is honoring his wishes of Cremation without further service. If you would like to donate and support something in his honor, his children have chosen an organization that their Father felt deeply about and would have volunteered at.

www.HappyNPO.com

Please share any photos or memories you have to honor his life and keep his loved ones in your prayers.