Baldomero "Papo" Cruz , age 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

Born in 1934 in Pinar del Río, Cuba, Papo made a courageous journey to escape communism in 1964. In a small vessel, alongside his pregnant wife, son, and eleven relatives, under the cover of a storm, they braved treacherous seas, aiming for America and the promise of freedom. After days adrift in the Gulf of Mexico, a crude-oil ship bound for Port Arthur, Texas, spotted them and brought them aboard. The following morning, the U.S. Coast Guard flew them to safety in Key West. There, Papo embraced the American Dream - working tirelessly, raising his family, and sharing his spirit with all wherever he went.

He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife of 62 years on Saturday, July 26, in Daytona Beach, Florida. His courage, warmth, and unwavering optimism have left an indelible mark on all who knew him and will be deeply missed.