(Aged 75, but forever young at heart)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward "Ewa" Cruz, our beloved prankster, bossy friend, and self-proclaimed "expert" in everything. Ewa left us on December 10, 2024, after finally running out of sarcastic comments and ways to prove he was always right. He was 75 years old.

He was the beloved husband of Diane M. (Ramos) Cruz for 52 years.

Born in New Bedford, son of the late Edward B. and Adeline A. (Alves) Cruz, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.

Ewa spent his life being the life of the party, constantly cracking jokes, and insisting on telling people how to do things-whether they asked or not. A natural-born leader (or bossy know-it-all, depending on who you ask), Ewa excelled at making sure everyone knew the "correct" way of doing things his way. Ewa had a heart of gold and a knack for making everyone around him laugh, even if it was at their expense. He'll be remembered for his wit, his ability to take over a room, and his humor.

Ewa was a man of many passions, and his zest for life was evident in everything he did. He was an avid cook, often experimenting with new recipes and sharing his culinary creations with friends and family. His love for food brought joy to countless gatherings (particularly his ribs).

He enjoyed sports. He had a particular fondness for vintage cars. A lover of music especially the smooth sounds of jazz. Ewa's warm heart, sense of humor, and genuine kindness will always be remembered. He was a giant bear hugger.

He was formerly employed by Pieraccini Grocery Store on Kempton St. in the Westend, Goodyear, Acushnet Company, Coastline Elderly Services and Loomis until his retirement.

Ewa was a life-time parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Church.

Survivors include his wife Diane; 2 sons, Chad Cruz and his wife Michelle of New Bedford and Jared Cruz of California; his cousin Louis "Butchie" Lopes, who was like a brother to him; and his cousin, Roberta Davis, with her Monday check-up call; 9 grandchildren, Marijah, Manisha, Tiara, Davion, Cachi, Manny, Marcus, Myles and Marcel; 14 great-grandchildren, Eeziyah, Namyjah-Raee, Keemyis, Legacii, Amarro, Manolo, Alonzo, Reynaldo, Armenee, Ayaneece, Cali, Luna, Mileena and Maliyah; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and God-children.

He was the brother of the late Kenneth Cruz.

His Funeral will be held on Wednesday, December 18th at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 10 AM. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, December 17th from 4-7 PM.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to a charity of one's choice.