Ismael Cruz, Sr. "Melo" passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, November 14, 2019 at the age of 78.

He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas on July 10, 1941 to his late parents Rosendo and Macaria Cruz. Melo is proceeded in death by his parents and his siblings: Rosendo Cruz, Eddie Cruz, Willie Cruz, Alicia Vasquez, Rosa Cruz Fuentes and Antonia Gardara.

Melo was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and American patriot.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories: his wife of 50 years, Juanita Cruz; his sons: Ismael Cruz, Jr "Smiley" and Jaime Cruz (Marcie Courvier); his daughters: Tina Vera (Joe), Lucy Medina and Stella Vasquez (Oscar); his sister Helen "Nena" Ramirez and his brother Rudy Cruz; 10 grandkids: Priscilla Rodriguez, Alyssa Medina, Ryan Cruz, Jaime Cruz Jr, Isaac Armadillo, Matthew Vera, Nasrin Medina, Jasmine Armadillo, Aaron Vera, Lylliana Cruz and 1 great grandchild: Arya Gomez.

Melo graduated from Roy Miller High School. As a young man he felt called to give back to his community and enlisted in the armed forces; proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 – 1967. He went on to work as a civilian aircraft mechanic at CCAD, where he would eventually retired. Sunday nights were never complete with out the Dallas Cowboys on the t.v., some delicious barbecue on the pit and lots of die hard shouting; the Cowboys were his all-time favorite team! A perfect day for Melo would be out on a pier catching fish, playing a round of golf or simply enjoying a nice cold beer with his friends and family. To say he will be missed is an understatement, but our faith tells us he is very much alive today. The legacy he built on this earth will continue to live in the hearts and minds of those who love him dearly.

Public Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, November 18 at Guardian Funeral Home with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. that evening. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 19 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Burial with full military honors will follow in the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery.