Obituary of Custodio A. Cruz

Custodio A. Cruz March 17, 1919 - January 26, 2006 Custodio A. Cruz, of Cozy Hollow Road, Danbury, devoted husband of Liuntina (Coelho) Cruz, died peacefully at his home in the loving presence of his family. He was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on March 17, 1919, son of the late Antonio and Maria (Olivera) Cruz. 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 forty-five 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. In addition to his devoted wife of 59 years, Liuntina, 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. Funeral Information A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 30th at 11:00am. at St. Gregory the Great Church, Danbury. Burial in St. Peter Cemetery will follow. The family will receive friends at the Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White Street, Danbury, on Sunday, January 29th between the hours of 5 and 8pm. Donations Information Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Regional Hospice of Western Connecticut, 405 Main Street, Danbury, CT. 06811.