“Your presence we miss, your memory we treasure, loving you always, forgetting you never”

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Bernardo "Bernie" Cruz of Salinas, CA, who left us peacefully on January 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Bernie was 72 years old, born on January 20, 1953, in Salinas, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, James "Jimmy" and Delia Blea Cruz, his brothers James and Arturo Cruz, and his grandson, Jhonathan Chaidez.

Bernie is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Mary Cruz, and his cherished children, Delia "DeeDee" Mangante, Bernie Cruz Jr., and Deborah Faith Cruz, along with his son-in-law, John Mangante Jr., and his precious grandsons, Jacob and Jonah. Raised in the small town of Chualar, CA, Bernie graduated from Gonzales High School. From a young age, he discovered his passion for being his own boss and embarked on various ventures in wholesales, distribution, sales, and merchandising. Later in his career, Bernie continued to work for various companies in the same field, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills. Eventually, retiring from Coca-Cola.

Bernie, who was not only a hardworking provider for his family but also a cherished friend to many. Throughout his illustrious career, Bernie had the unparalleled opportunity to meet and connect with countless individuals, many of whom he held close as dear friends.

Bernie was a devoted member and minister of the First Apostolic Church in Salinas and recently joined the Community Life Apostolic Church. His love for the Lord was boundless, and he was never shy about sharing his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Bernie was a dedicated servant of God, and his role as a prayer warrior was a testament to his deep spirituality. He fervently believed in the power of healing in the name of Jesus, and his prayers were always filled with hope and faith. Bernie found immense joy in reading the Word of God, and he cherished every moment spent in fellowship with his brothers and sisters (in Christ) at various church functions.

Bernie was a man who truly loved his family and was always there for them. He was a constant presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren, attending many of his grandsons sports games, birthday parties, school pickups (and sometimes drop-offs), and taking them to their medical appointments, even if they lived 30 minutes away. Bernie was someone you could always count on. His kindness and reliability didn't stop with his family. He was a helpful, caring, and loyal man who extended his generosity to friends and even strangers. Bernie was always willing to help anyone in need.

Bernie enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, such as fishing, going on trips with his family and grandchildren, visiting his daughter/son-in-law/grandsons in Gilroy, lunch dates with his daughter, Deborah or best friends, making his daily calls with friends and family, and indulging in all things sports. He was a sports fan of the SF 49ers, Warriors, SF Giants, and SJ Sharks. His love for sports was rivaled only by his love for food. Pho (any soup), BBQ, beef broccoli, and white rice were among his favorites, and he always said that everything went well with rice. He also enjoyed making menudo, which brought warmth and comfort to those who enjoyed it.

Bernie lived his life filled with love and laughter, always bringing joy and light to those around him. He had a knack for making people laugh and always had something funny to say. His personality was truly contagious, and he had a way of brightening up any room he walked into. Bernie's legacy of love, faith, and laughter will live on in our hearts forever. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Let us come together to honor and remember the remarkable life that Bernie lived. His memory will continue to inspire us and bring us comfort in the days ahead.

Viewing and service will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, at Community Life Apostolic Church in Salinas, California (180 Williams Rd.). Viewing will be from 3 PM-6 PM with a service beginning at 6 PM. On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Burial services will be at Garden of Memories in Salinas at 10 AM followed by a Celebration of Life at Community Life Apostolic Church Hall.