Edilberto B. Cruz

Edilberto "Bert" Cruz, aged 90, of Canton, passed away on June 25, 2024. He was a devoted husband to Lumen and a cherished father to Carina (Scott) Miller, the late Elsa Cruz, and Eric (Corey) Cruz. Bert was a proud grandfather to Nigel, Mekhi, Cole, Brent, Zach, Chase, Clancy, Amanda, and Justin, and a beloved great-grandfather to Griffin and Jethro. Bert’s life was defined by his deep love of Christ and his desire to share this love with others. Always mindful that we are created in His image, Bert carried himself with dignity and grace in all matters. He remained active in the Catholic Church, Joy of the Lord prayer group, and various faith-based organizations, always finding time to serve others and spread the word of Jesus. Despite not reaching the educational heights he would have preferred, Bert excelled in the school of life. He was a clever conversationalist, keenly perceptive, quick-witted, and was an eloquent speaker and writer. His wife, Lumen, holds a collection of his masterfully conveyed love letters, which, if published, could rival the writings of Napoleon to Josephine. Bert was an avid reader, deeply aware of both local and global events. He belonged to a bowling league for many years and was a huge fan of karate and action movies, often exclaiming, “I want ak-shuun!” Bert was an exemplary individual with boundless generosity, extending his altruism to help his nieces and nephews in the Philippines complete their educations. He understood the generational impact of a college degree and dedicated decades to supporting his family abroad, leaving a legacy of generosity and love. Bert's warm presence, constant unforgettable smile, and passion for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His immediate family never doubted his love, affection, and lifelong commitment. His devotion to his wife, Lumen, was unmatched, their connection transcending the borders between heaven and earth. Even in his final minutes, unable to speak, he awoke her from a deep sleep to say goodbye, waving as if to signal, “It’s time for me to go, my love. Come and hold my hand one last time.” Bert's life will be celebrated with a visitation on Friday, July 5, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, located at 46401 Ann Arbor Road West, Plymouth, Michigan 48170, between Beck and Sheldon. A Rosary service will be held the same evening at 6:30 pm. The following day, Saturday, July 6, 2024, Bert will lie in state from 10:30 am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church, 555 South Lilley Road, Canton, Michigan 48188. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. To share a memory, please use the Share a Memory tab on this web page.

Edilberto B. Cruz

February 19, 1934 - June 25, 2024