Roy Joseph Cruz passed away suddenly July 22, 2020 at his home. He was born October of 1949. He is proceeded in death by both of his parents Jose L. Cruz and Fedelia Cruz, and his sister Esther (Cruz) and her husband Louis Jaramillo.

Roy is survived by a brother Gene P. Cruz and his wife Gail L. Cruz; a sister Donna (Cruz) Smith and husband Rodger Smith; his son Jimi Paulsen and wife Shannon Paulsen; and grandchildren Alyssa M. and Tristan D. Paulsen. Roy is also survived by many nephews and nieces: Christopher M. Cruz and wife Aurora; Cory B. Cruz and wife Brittany; Brandon E. Smith and wife Alicia; Kristy N. (Smith) Roth and husband John Roth; Steven Jaramillo and Adelmo Jaramillo; and many loving Godchildren, cousins and friends.

Roy lived his entire life in Rawlins where he attended Pershing Elementary, Rawlins Middle School, and graduated from Rawlins High School in 1969.  Roy was always seen driving his Dad’s 1949 Green GMC ¾ pickup to school and work.

Roy spent some years with CIG (Colorado Interstate Gas) where he made some great friends. He then went on to work and retire from the Carbon County Sherriff's Department where he really enjoyed helping people in many ways. Finally, Roy went on to work for the Carbon County School District Transportation Department. Roy spoke very often of his last role with the school district. He transported students to sporting events and scholastic events, as well as to and from school. He was very proud of the students in Rawlins! He would always brag about how he drove “his kids” to a volleyball game or a basketball game. He was also very fond of the teaching staff, coaches, and parents. Roy enjoyed his co-workers in the Transportation group, especially sharing a cup of coffee with them.

Roy also enjoyed the outdoors immensely. He loved to be in the wilderness to camp, fish, hunt, and just be in nature. He taught many of us unforgettable lessons in these areas, and created countless, wonderful memories!

 Roy was many things to all of us in one or more ways: a loving Son, Brother, Father, Grandpa, Uncle, Padrino, Cousin and Friend. On his journey through this life he touched the lives of many family members and made life-long friends - all of whom will miss him!!

“ I thank you my God for all the days of my life, for all the people that I love, that walk the path with me, for the food we have to eat, for the place where we sleep, for all the things you have done and continue to do for me. Amen”

                                                      Roy J. Cruz

Cremation has already taken place. Internment will take place at a date to be determined. Other services will be held once family and friends can safely get together for a celebration of life.