DEFIANCE, OH – Mary Rose Cruz, age 78, of Defiance, died Sunday, November 5, 2023. She is the daughter of the late Paul and Rosa Wagner (Miranda), born on March 19, 1945, in Puerto Rico. Mary graduated from Defiance High School in 1963 and later married the love of her life, Pedro Cruz, on May 29, 1966. Mary was a social butterfly who could talk to anyone with ease. She loved pets, crossword puzzles, and most of all, her family and friends. She will be remembered for her loving and caring ways. Mary genuinely enjoyed taking care of people and was considered a mom to many, not just her own children.

Mary leaves behind her daughter, Aimee (Caleb) Baker of Jonesville, MI; siblings, Paul Wagner of Defiance, OH; grandchildren; Sasha and Kendra Cruz, and Doug Froelich, as well as a great-grandson, James Cruz. In addition to her parents, Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Pete Cruz; her son, James, and her brothers, Roy and Ray Wagner.

Visitation will be at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Hebron Ministries, 1123 Ayersville Ave., Defiance, OH 43512, where a service will follow at 5:00 p.m. officiated by Pastor Vince Cantu. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Hebron Ministries in honor of Mary. Flowers may be delivered to the church on Wednesday between 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. For more information or to view Mary’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.

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