Daniel Joe Cruz

In Loving Memory of Daniel Joe Cruz

September 12, 1958 – October 10, 2026

Known as “Danny”, Daniel Joe Cruz was born on September 12, 1958, at Santa Marta Hospital in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in the Los Nietos community, where his roots, heritage, and love for Mexican traditions would become an important part of his life. Daniel attended Aeolian Elementary School and Los Nietos Middle School before graduating from Pioneer High School in Whittier, California, in 1976.

Daniel was a father, grandfather, and a man who valued the relationships and memories he shared with those closest to him. Through the challenges of illness, he demonstrated remarkable discipline and determination, taking an active role in his health and continuing to learn and grow through his journey. He was an intelligent man with a strong memory, a practical mind, and a talent for figuring things out. He had a wide range of skills and was always willing to lend his knowledge and experience.

A proud Mexican American, Daniel deeply cherished his heritage, his roots in Los Nietos, and the traditions that shaped his life. From a young age, he embraced La Charrería, developing a deep passion for the charro way of life. Daniel’s love for la charreria took him beyond California, as he traveled throughout Mexico during his charro years. Daniel participated in charreadas from 1968 to 1996, dedicating an incredible 28 years to the sport and tradition of charro. An accomplished charro completo, his exceptional horsemanship, versatility, and dedication allowed him to excel across the traditional scoring events.

His remarkable talent and lifelong dedication to this cherished tradition continued to be recognized into adulthood. In 2016, Daniel was honored by the National Board of Directors of the Mexican Federation of Charrería for his outstanding participation in the promotion and development of La Charrería in California. In 2022, he was again recognized by the Mexican Federation of Charrería in California for his outstanding participation in magnifying the sport of Charrería in the United States. These honors reflected his commitment to preserving a cherished Mexican tradition and his enduring connection to the culture he proudly represented. Daniel’s charro legacy will forever be remembered by many.

In addition, he put his skills and knowledge to use while helping support his father’s business, Cruz Brothers Landscaping, and took pride in his work. His knowledge of plants, agriculture, and landscaping was something noticeable. He understood how to care for the earth, nurture its growth, and transform a space from the ground up. His ability to create and cultivate beauty through his work reflected his many talents and the passion he carried throughout his life.

Known for his charisma, humor, and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, Daniel was unapologetically himself. He brought laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable moments to those around him. He found happiness in life's simplest pleasures: sharing a good meal, especially Mexican food, cheering on his beloved Rams, Lakers, Dodgers, and USC. In the end all that mattered to him was to live for his family, creating as many memories as possible.

He found happiness in seeing his children and grandchildren grow and succeed. His love for his family, his pride in his heritage, and the lessons he shared throughout his life will always be remembered by them.

Daniel is survived by his five beloved children, Ronnie, Cristina, Arlene, Gabriella, and Gilbert; his cherished grandchildren Elizabeth, Andrew, Audrianna, Theodore, Gianna, Benjamin; his great grandchild Yaya, daughter in-law Missy and son in-law Jeff. As well as his loving and supportive siblings, Art and Yvonne, brother-in-law Dee Dee and sister-in-law Denise. His love, wisdom, and the memories he shared with each of them will forever remain in their hearts.

Daniel was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Tomas and Mary Cruz, and most recently in November 2025 his oldest son, Daniel Cruz Jr., whom he loved dearly and the heartbreak he carried with him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Daniel's spirit, wisdom, laughter, and the beautiful memories he created will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Services in Honor of Daniel Joe Cruz

Viewing & Memorial Service

Sunday, November 8, 2026 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

White Emerson Mortuary 13304 Philadelphia Street Whittier, CA 90601

Catholic Funeral Mass

Monday, November 9, 2026 10 AM – 11:00 AM

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church 8545 S. Norwalk Boulevard Los Nietos, CA 90606

Funeral & Burial

Following the Funeral Mass

Rose Hills Memorial Park 3888 Workman Mill Road Whittier, CA 90601