Clifford Edward Cruz

Branson, Missouri

Clifford Edward Cruz,  53 years, 1 month, 19 days old, passed away on  January 24, 2025, at  Cox South Hospital.

Cliff  was born December 5, 1971 in West Covina, California, to Fred and Mary (Marquez) Cruz.

He and his family moved to the Ava community in 1977. Cliff graduated from the Ava High School. While he was in school he played the clarinet in the high school band.

He was diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of 15. From then on he was challenged with the disease . He had to take dialysis three times a week for most of his life. He fought the disease with all his might and because of that he and the Lord lived to be 53 years.

When he was a young man he did his best to work and got the opportunity to work at Hutch's and Sue's Café in Ava.

Cliff loved music and enjoyed being a djay. He loved life all the way and would help anyone in need. When probably not really able, Cliff still reached out to the needy by passing out food to the homeless.

He loved his Lord and he was a faithful Catholic. Cliff adored his family and they adored him. His courage and strength kept him going. He was admired by his family and his friends.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Mary.

He is survived by his siblings, Martha Stewart, Louella Herrera, Roberta Williams, Valerie Cruz, and Christopher Cruz; many nieces; nephews; other relatives and numerous friends.

Cremation services are being conducted by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, Missouri. Per Cliff's request he wanted to be cremated and no public services.