Julio N. Cruz, 77, of New Bedford died Sunday July 15, 2007 at St. Luke's Hospital after a brief illness.

Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Nicholas and Julia (Oliveira) Cruz, he lived in Allentown, PA for many years before returning to New Bedford ten years ago.

Mr. Cruz was formerly employed as a bridge painter.

He was a member of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World, Carney Lodge #200.

Survivors include four sons, Ronald Cruz of Virginia Beach, Julio Cruz and John Nicholas Cruz, both of New Bedford, and Keith Chain of Allentown; two sisters, Joyce Morris and Marian Cruz-Westgate, both of New Bedford; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

His Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 9 AM in Our Lady of the Assumption Church. Visiting hours are omitted. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.