Margarita Cruz

Margarita Cruz, a devoted mother, cherished matriarch, and faithful servant of God, peacefully entered eternal rest on February 22, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 22, 1933, Margarita's life was a testament to strength, love, and unwavering faith.

With boundless love and incredible strength, Margarita raised 11 children, single-handedly guiding her family through life's challenges after the tragic passing of her beloved husband, Martin Cruz. She was the heart and soul of her family, embodying the true essence of resilience and courage.

Margarita discovered peace in gardening, frequently collecting seeds from every flower, plant, and garden she encountered. She nurtured a burning bush tree and a Rose of Sharon with tender devotion, finding happiness from watching them grow and blossom, treating them as cherished children.

Her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ was evident in every aspect of her life, serving as a guiding light for her family and all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her faith.

Margarita will be deeply missed by her children, Juan (Teresa) Cruz, Altagracia (Raymond) Champlin, Fernando (Fran) Cruz, Lucy Stanesic, Jesus (Laurie) Cruz, Maria Barnes, Anita (Chip) Dore, Luis Cruz, Teresa (Jim) Greno, Daniel (Pam) Cruz, David Cruz; and her grandchildren, Michael (Dawn) Vincent, Shelby (Joe) Spring, Darcie (Chris) Walker, Pete (Rebecca) Cruz, Daniela (Harley) Bethel, Justin Elston, Dakin Stanesic, Dana (Jason) Engstrom, Jason Brumfield, Aaron (Kim) Brumfield, Nathan Pallett, Tasha (Scott) Brandt, Tehanne (Eric) Cooney, Paul Edwards, Parker (Jessica) Cruz, Chandler (Michaela) Cruz, Keely Cruz, Tanner Cruz, Marissa Banaszak, Dakota Banaszak, Anthony (Maggie) Luzius, Kirsten Koch, Todd Cruz, Sean Cruz, Kayla Cruz, Mark (Kristin) Mobley DePalma-Cruz, Patrick Cruz.

She was also survived by 32 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great grandchildren each one a testament to her enduring love and influence.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Martin Sabas Cruz; son-in-law, Jeffrey Barnes; and great-great-grandchild, Caine.

Visitation will be held at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068, on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 212 W. Hanover Street in Marshall on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at 11:00 AM, officiating, Fr. James Richardson of St. Philip Roman Catholic Church of Battle Creek. A graveside service will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Marshall. 

In this time of profound loss, let us remember and celebrate the extraordinary life of Margarita Cruz, a woman whose love knew no bounds and whose faith inspired all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved husband and embraced by the everlasting love of God. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA, 22116 or by using this link www.diabetes.org/donate .

Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.