Stanley Alan "Stan" Cruz

      Stanley Alan "Stan" Cruz, age 79, of St. Louis, MI, passed away peacefully at his home with his wife by his side on Friday, March 10, 2023.

     In following Stan's wishes, a cremation has taken place and at a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Alma, MI.

     Stanley was born in Grayling, Michigan on August 14, 1943, the son of Jesse and Ruth C. (Feldhauser) Cruz. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy on board the U.S.S. Oxford. He achieved the rank of 3rd class Petty Officer MM3.  On May 18, 1968, Stanley married Claudia Mae Husted at First Baptist Church, Alma, MI. They were blessed with nearly fifty-five years of marriage.

     Stan enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He had a great sense of humor and always had a joke or nickname for his friends and family. He always had a story to tell! He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and loved to spend time with them.

     Stan was a truck driver most of his life. He was proud of being the one to haul the military tank to the St. Louis VFW Post #3055 where he was a lifetime member. He liked to play darts and cards. He was a mechanic and especially enjoyed working on race cars and antique cars. In his younger years, Stan enjoyed drag racing.

     He is survived by his wife Claudia, three children: Stephen Nowicki and his wife Tina of St. Clair, MI; Bryan Cruz and his wife Nidia of Thomasville, NC; and daughter Karli Cruz and her husband George VanAuken of Dahlonega, GA. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Mario Nowicki, Kameron Cruz, Frankie Cruz, Sophia Cruz, and Evan Cruz; one sister Jana (Robert) Ring, brother Tom (Carol) Cruz, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and father- and mother-in-law Claude and Sadie Husted.

     In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.