HARLINGEN — Rev. Miguel Cruz

88, entered into eternal rest at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, November 22, 2009.

He was born on May 8, 1921 to Cresencio and Adela Cruz in New Iberia, LA. Rev. Cruz began his life of passion for the Lord while attending Bible School in Cuidad Victoria, Mexico in 1940. In 1942 he met and married his wife of 66 years Maria R. Cruz.

After his bible studies he worked in sales in Monterrey Mexico and later moved to Harlingen in 1950 where he began his life-long commitment to the Lord and ministry. Rev. Cruz ministered as Sunday School Superintendent for Templo Siloe, Primera Asemblea de Dios for 22 years. After helping to build up the church ministry there and construct a new church, Rev. Cruz was selected by the Gulf Latin District of the Assemblies of God to pastor the Templo Bethel Asemblea de Dios church in Mercedes, Tx. He continued to pastor there for 27 dedicated years where he touched and affected many families. He retired in 2002 after which his daughter, the Rev. Ruth Torres was elected to pastor the church.

During the last seven years, Rev. Cruz continued his ministry of prayer and assisted with the church’s adult class.

Rev. Cruz is preceded in death by his wife; Maria R. Cruz, 2 children; Josue Cruz and Miguel Cruz, Jr.

Left behind to cherish loving memories are his 9 children; Rev. Ruth (Israel) Torres, Hector (Angie) Cruz both of Harlingen, Elizabeth (Al) Morris of Killeen, Joel (Patty) Cruz, Israel (Sylvia) Cruz, Corina (Jerry) Penuelas, Jaime (Diana) Cruz all of Harlingen, Irma (Donald) Nyamosi of Dallas, Javier (Mary) Cruz of Harlingen, 18 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, brothers; Rev. David Cruz, Rev. Elias Cruz, Samuel Cruz, and a sister; Rev. Noemi Gonzales.

Visitation will begin today, Nov. 24, 2009 at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Peace from 9 am until 9 pm with a prayer service to be held at 7 pm.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009 at 9 am at Abundant Life Church with Rev. David Cruz officiating. Interment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

Honored to serve, as pallbearers will be grandchildren of Rev. Miguel Cruz.

Funeral arrangements under the direction of Rudy Garza Funeral Home of Harlingen.