Martin Cruz

Martin Cruz, 78, of East Chicago, IN, passed away peacefully at home on July 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Cidra, Puerto Rico on September 15, 1946, to the late Julio and Isabel Cruz. Martin moved to East Chicago in 1959, where he built a life full of love, laughter, and hard work.

Martin retired from Union Tank in 2008 after many years as an overhead craneman, having started there in 1988.He was known for his strong work ethic and always being willing to lend a hand.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Hilda Cruz, and their four children: Martin Cruz Jr., Herberto (Robin) Cruz, Angel Luis (Melissa) Cruz, and Senatte Cruz. He was the proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and even had a special place in his heart for his honorary grand pup, Kapone.

Martin was the oldest of 11 siblings and loved by many nieces and nephews. His siblings include Late Hilda (Gregorio),Epifanio (Teresa), the late Angel Luis, Rosa (Mike), Anna (late Leonel), Maria (Luis), Rene (Yvette), Peter (Carmen), Maira (late Charle), and Maritza.

Martin was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. He had a kind heart and a generous spirit. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, going to the casino, scratch-off tickets, and working on cars as a self-taught mechanic. He was always willing to help anyone in need.

He had a big sweet tooth—especially for Mounds bars and cookies. Martin’s kind, gentle spirit will be missed deeply by everyone who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center 8941 Kleinman Rd (one block south of Ridge Rd) Highland, IN, 46322 with a Funeral Service at 7:00 pm.

Cremation will follow.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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