Maria “Cruz” Juarez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother went to be with the Lord on April 6th 2022. She passed peacefully in her sleep in her home with those whom she dearly loved. She leaves behind a legacy of a life full, full of happiness, laughter, love, and family.  She was born in Torreon, Coahuila(Mexico) on May 3rd 1925 to Jessuah Calvillo (Mama Chuey) and Antonio Ramirez. She was raised by her stepfather, Jesus Vasquez (Papa Chuey).  She went on to marry, Manuel Juarez in Mexico, where they started their family and eventually made their way to their forever home, Chicago. Leaving her family in Mexico, she came to Chicago, where she was surrounded by only her husband’s family. “Cruz” made her mark and impact as a contributor within her husband’s family but made sure not to forget her own siblings in Mexico. She did those things she needed to care for her husband’s family, her family in Mexico, and her own that she started.

She could be found in the kitchen often cooking elaborate meals whether it be for her family or parties, all the while laughing and having a great time. Her food was always the most sought after at family parties as they knew they would be filled with so much love. Though she did this, she always made sure her own children were fed, clothed, clean, and more than loved. Maria loved her garden. She would spend most mornings in her garden. She made sure it was always filled with the most beautiful flowers and bountiful vegetables. Neighbors would admire all the care and effort she put into her garden.

 She was overjoyed when she became a grandmother, but even more so when she became a great grandmother. She adoringly, named her great grandchildren, la princesa (princess) and guerito (white little boy) and loved them so much, they could do no wrong. She passed on all the traditions she came to have, to her own children down to her great grandchildren.  “Cruz” will always be around and remembered fondly.

Maria is survived by her five children, Mary Teresa (Noriega), Frank, Rosa (Rodriguez), Victor, and best friend and youngest Rebecca; her six grandchildren, Armando and Laura (Noriega), Luis and Rojelio  (Juarez), and Elizabeth and Miguel (Juarez); her great grandchildren, Ella Marie and Eric Xavier Manuel (Gonzalez) , and finally her loving sister Marie Elena Ramirez. Abuela, we will forever miss you and there is nothing that will fill the hole and space you have left in our hearts. We LOVE YOU and know you will forever be with us!