Condolence: Class of 93 will hold you in our memories , with love always. Lisett

Condolence: Class of 93 will always hold uou in our memories , with love.

Condolence: I was shocked to hear this terrible news about Coach Cruz. He left such an imprint on all the students and soccer players at Watchung Hills. Our deepest sympathies to Coach's Cruz's family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Rest in Peace Coach Cruz.

Condolence: larga barca vivo mi amigo

Dios bendiga

Condolence: Cruz left a beautiful footprint in the lives of so many! He was always there with a kind word and a smile, a smile that brightened the hallways of "the Hills" community. Our memory of this great man will live on in all of our hearts.

Condolence: Coach Cruz,

It is obvious with the outpouring of emotion and support that you have touched so many young lives in a short few years as a great teacher and coach. But for most you were a lot more by simply being a friend, a listener who would go the extra mile in supporting them. And a great mentor.

I witnessed it first hand with my boys every day for past 5 years and during my own interactions with you. Just couple of weeks ago at the relatively breezy and cold senior night you were handing coffees/hot choco to the kids at the bench. You always looked out for them all.

I'd often stop by at practices or wait after games till you came out, so I could chat with you. I relished your interaction with my boys especially Shaun. I didn't realize Shray had also gotten so close to you over the last two years. He tells me he'd stop by your room or the Spanish class almost daily and chat with you at practices and games a little more than other kids.

Shaun, Shray and I are devastated with the news. You meant so much to my kids. When Shray got injured last year during tryouts you told me that Shray will be fine in the Freshman team and I asked you , 'Coach Cruz - you don't understand. Shaun and I want Shray to play for you next 3 years. No one else'.

I will remember how I picked on you for being like Shray's younger brother (Younger because Shray is way taller than you big guy) as Shray has same hair cut, tan, looks, speak Spanish with a funnier accent just like you :). And for being a fashion model. You are a very easy going fella.

All of us are having a hard time understanding what just happened. We were at a college soccer tournament for Shaun and no sooner than when we pulled into our driveway Shray read the email and sank into his seat. Neither he nor I have recovered since. The pleasure of knowing you and the ache of knowing that we won't see you again is so overwhelming. I don't recall having non-stop tears since my own dad passed away as a teacher at age 35.

I am sure your child will in due time learn what a splendid dad he has and become a great person just like you. We wish your wife, mom, dad, brothers, sisters, grand parents strength and guidance to bear with this calamity and leave you in His hands.

You have left a crater of a hole in so many hearts of these youngsters and parents alike. You are truly one of a kind. We will miss you a lot and for a very long time but we will never ever forget you and the legacy you have left behind. My family is honored to have known you and feel fortunate to have our lives intersected.

Rest in peace. Adios Amigo!

Shaun, Shray & Vijay Parimoo

Condolence: This is truly heartbreaking. Rest in Peace JC.

Condolence: We are absolutely heartbroken to hear of Coach Cruz passing. Each year since 2000, we have presented the Defensive Animal Award at the soccer banquets in honor of our late son, Aaron. And each year we would see the love and respect that the players have for Coach Cruz. I also served as a sub at WHRHS and witnessed the affection his students had for this gregarious, super optimistic, friendly and caring teacher. For some reason, God needed Juan Carlos in His house. May He provide comfort to this great man's family, and may Coach Cruz memory live on at the Hills. God Bless you.

Condolence: It breaks my heart to lose a man so filled with love of life and joy. He made my school day enjoyable and I loved his class and him. He was not only a great teacher, but he was also a great person and role model for all of us. He will be forever remembered, as he affected me and thousands of others.

Condolence: I am very saddened to hear about Mr. Cruz passing. I got the pleasure of meeting him at the begaining of the school year... for my daughter Jade. My heartfelt condolences to the family.