Katherine Ruth Cruz

Katherine Ruth Cruz of Caro, age 75, passed away Friday, January 17, 2025 at Covenant – Harrison in Saginaw. Kathy was born June 11, 1949 in Asheville, North Carolina, the daughter of the late Lee and Ruth (Shepard) Lindsey. On November 18, 1988, Kathy married the love of her life, Dale Cruz and the couple shared over thirty-six years of love, laughter, and memories. She spent eleven years as an assembler for GM before transitioning to a seventeen year tenure as a Walmart manager until her retirement in 2008. In her spare time, she found joy in sewing and lovingly crafted blankets for her children and grandchildren. A movie enthusiast, she enjoyed films of all genres—from horror and action to anything with a captivating storyline. An avid reader, Kathy’s bookshelves were lined with thrilling works by Stephen King, James Patterson, Dean Koontz, and John Sandford. Kathy liked to have fun and enjoyed trips to the casino to gamble. Her love for the ocean was boundless, though she preferred to admire its beauty from afar without getting wet! At home, Kathy found comfort in simple pleasures. Whether cheering on her favorite football teams with Dale, cooking in the kitchen, or savoring a delicious meal, she lived each moment fully. Above all else, Kathy’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose love, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed.

Left to cherish Kathy’s memory are her husband, Dale Cruz; three children, Karen Stephens and her husband, Tom, Charlie Fielder and his longtime partner, Michelle, and Gary Fielder and his wife, Dana; seven grandchildren, Thomas (Sheena) Stephens, Shawn (Damien) Vella, Katie (David) Dickerson, Andrew (Paige) Stephens, Savanna Fielder, Drake Fielder, and Vladimir Fielder; fourteen great-grandchildren; and one sister, Sandra Bacon. In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by one brother and two sisters.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Kathy’s family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider planting a memorial tree in Kathy’s honor.