John Baptista "Duke" Cruz, Jr., 76, of New Bedford died Monday May 10, 2004 at St. Luke's Hospital after a brief illness. He was the husband of Ruth (Sylvia) Cruz.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late John B. and Justa (Pina) Cruz, he had lived in New Bedford for most of his life.
He was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Church.
Mr. Cruz was formerly employed as a merchant seaman with the Exxon Corporation. He later worked at Stride-Rite Shoe Company in New Bedford.
During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation of Japan Medal. He was a member of the Merchant Mariners Club and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Andrews-Dahill Post 1531. He was a longtime board member of the United Front Development Corporation.
He was an active member of William H. Carney Lodge #200 of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World since 1972. He held the seat of tiler for many years. He joined the Past Exalted Rulers Council #14 in 1974. He was awarded the highest honor of Past State President in 1986. He also received numerous honors throughout his years of Elkdom. Brother Cruz served as a mentor for many of the younger members of the Elks.
Survivors include his wife; three children, Collins A. Kydd, Jr., of New Bedford, Stephen Fontes Long of New York, NY, and Susan Ribeiro of St. Louis, Missouri; a brother, Antone B. Cruz of New Bedford; two sisters, Mary Fortes and Olive Rose, both of New Bedford; four grandchildren, Bianca Long, Helena Long, Nsenga Ribeiro, and Jonathan Ribeiro; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Edward B. Cruz and Margie Gomes.
Funeral from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New BedfordMonday May 17, 2004 at 8 AM.Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 9 AM.Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Sunday May 16, 2004 from 4-8 PM. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery.