Jay Franclin Valenzuela Cruz

Jay Franclin V. Cruz, 32, of Waterloo, passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospital. He was born on September 19, 1991, to Jay Victoriano F. and Fe Remedios (Valenzuela) Cruz in Manila, Philippines.

Jay earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology and Health from the University of Iowa in 2015. He worked as a Chef for the University of Northern Iowa, LJ Neighborhood Bar and Grill, and La Calle.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dr. Ramon and Justina G. Valenzuela; paternal grandfather, Jesus F. Cruz; maternal aunt and uncle, Dr. Pilar and Dr. Jesus Cruz; and paternal aunt Jean Corazon F. Cruz; and cousin, Naim El Debs.

Jay is survived by his parents, Jay Victoriano and Fe Remedios Cruz; siblings, Jay Ferdinand V. (Claudette S.) Cruz, Jay Frederic V. Cruz, Jay Francis V. Cruz, and Jaye Francina V. Cruz; nephew, Cian Jethro Cruz; paternal grandmother, Marina F. Cruz; paternal aunt, Julie F. Cruz; maternal aunts, Victoria V. Runez, Judith V. Celle, and Luz Jean V. El Debs; maternal uncle, Ricardo G. Valenzuela; and many cousins and along with their families.

Visitation and vigil service will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, Vigil Service at 2:00 p.m. with visitation to follow until 6:00 p.m. at Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Ave. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Scott Bullock at Locke at Tower Park.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Cruz Family.