ANTONITO — Fernando Malagon Cruz, 86, passed away July 8, 2019 at the Evergreen Nursing Home with his loving family by his side. Fernando was welcomed into the world Sept. 4, 1932, the beloved son of Fernando Cruz Ramirez and Maria Malagon Luna Ramirez.

He was united in marriage to Maria Ruben “Betty” Ruybal on Aug. 11, 1965 in Alamosa. The two shared a long and loving union until his passing. Fernando was an exceptional and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend who enjoyed doing landscaping, gardening, rockwork and volunteering for church activities. Above all Fernando loved the time he was able to spend with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Maria “Betty” Cruz of Antonito; daughters Ranee (Daniel) Sours of Lakewood; Marie (Michael) Cruz-Lucero of Ortiz; Deborah Cruz of La Jara; son Michael (Justine) Cruz of Pueblo; 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, sisters Anna Maria Cruz, Teresa Cruz both of Senguio Michoacan, Mexico; brothers Raul Cruz and Augusto Cruz both of Mexico City, Mexico. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Fernando was preceded in death by his parents Fernando and Maria Cruz, brothers Rodolfo Cruz, Juan Manuel Cruz and Jose Maria Cruz.

Cremation was chosen, and A Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Friday, July 12, at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, July 13, at 11 a.m. also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will be held at a later date.

To leave online condolences please visit www.romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements have been placed in care of Romero Funeral Home of Antonito.