Custodio A. Cruz

US Army WWII        Veteran

Custodio A. Cruz, 86, Danbury, devoted husband of Liuntina (Coelho) Cruz, died at his home in the loving presence of his family. He was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on March 17, 1919, son of Antonio and Maria (Olivera) Cruz.

In addition to his devoted wife of 59 years, he will be sadly missed by his daughter, Sandra Cruz Smith and her husband, Robert, of Newtown; his son, Philip J. Cruz and his wife, Sandra, of Newtown; his cherished grandchildren, Christopher and Gregory Smith, Hollee Smith Chontos and her husband, Jeffrey, Amanda Cruz Rosa and her husband, Michael, and Andrew Cruz; and four great-grandchildren, Chase, Cole, Trevor, and Hunter. He is also survived by his brother, Edward DaCruz of Bethel; his sister, Amarinda Sousa of Danbury; his sister-in-law, Angelina Coelho; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Elvira Fonseca, Selma Valinho, and Laurentina Rebello.

Mr Cruz was a veteran of World War II, serving with the United States Army. He served as a Halftrack Driver in the 571st AAA AW Battalion (SP). His battalion served under General Patton’s 3rd Army during the Battle of the Bulge. His battalion was one of four other AAA battalions credited with shooting down 45 German planes in 45 minutes.

He worked as a foreman for Harvey Hubbell Company in Newtown, retiring after 30 years. He enjoyed membership in the American Legion and the Portuguese American Club and was a parishioner of St Gregory the Great Church in Danbury.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated January 30 at St Gregory the Great Church. Burial followed in St Peter Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Regional Hospice of Western Connecticut, 405 Main Street, Danbury CT 06811.

The Newtown Bee        February 3, 2006