Cecilio Cruz, 94, Known as a Kind and Loving Gentleman

Always with a twinkle in his eye, a smile on his face, and a joke at the ready, Tilo brought joy to everyone he met—family, friends, and even strangers willing to lend an ear. Known fondly as “Tilo” by so many, he was remembered as a kind, loving gentleman who never hesitated to help someone in need—no questions asked.

Tilo was born in San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, on July 20, 1930. He was a longtime resident of Lorain, and retired from General Motors Fisher Body Plant in Elyria. Before moving his family to Lorain, he lived in Bronx, New York, where he worked as a cab driver.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Cruz and Justina Morales; his beloved son, William ("Tabu") Cruz; his cherished brothers, Delfin Cruz, Carmelo Cruz, and Pedro Cruz; and his loving sister, Petra Morales.

He is survived by his ex-wife, Confesora Cruz of Lorain; his dear brother, Alfredo Cruz of Lorain; and his children: Emilia Cruz (husband Luis Roman Rivera) of Amherst, Anna D. Cruz of Florida; Lucilia Cruz and Esther Cruz of Lorain; and sons Joseph Cruz (wife Susan) of Oak Harbor and Denny Cruz of Lorain, who took loving care of his father for the last seven years.

Tilo was the eldest of five generations and an extraordinary grandpa to many. He loved each of them deeply and took pride in remembering all of their birthdays. Something that amazed us all. He was, without a doubt, the best grandpa.

His family will receive friends at the Richard J. Reidy Funeral Home, 1783 East 31st Street, South Lorain, Friday, May 23, 2025, from 4 to 8 PM. His funeral will be Saturday, May 24 in the funeral home 10 AM, burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the funeral home to offset burial expenses.

For expressions of sympathy and further information, please visit Reidyfuneral.com.