Buena V. Cruz's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Buena Villamonte Cruz
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Buena Villamonte Cruz, who entered eternal rest on February 3, 2025, in Hayward, California. She was born on April 1, 1946, in Daet, Camarines Norte, Philippines, and lived a life full of love, devotion, and joy.
Buena graduated from the University of the East in Manila with a Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance before courageously venturing to the United States in 1976 to build a future for herself and her family. In 1978, she briefly returned to the Philippines to marry the love of her life, Ricardo Cruz, on June 12, 1978. She then returned to the United States alone, where she gave birth to their son, Brian, on March 13, 1979. A few years later, Ricardo joined them, and together they built a beautiful life rooted in love, dedication, and family.
She dedicated 30 years of service as a Risk Management Supervisor for Wells Fargo Bank, where her kindness, wisdom, and work ethic left a lasting impact on her colleagues.
More than her professional achievements, Buena will be remembered for the warmth she brought to every room. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, always putting others before herself. She found joy in traveling, dancing, and singing karaoke, and she was famous for her delicious chicken wings and rainbow Jello. Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her loved ones, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and love.
A devout Catholic, Buena’s faith was the foundation of her life. She attended mass at All Saints Catholic Church in Hayward with unwavering devotion, finding strength and comfort in her beliefs.
She is survived by her loving husband, Ricardo Cruz; her son, Brian Cruz; and her precious grandchildren, Brandon Jeremiah Cruz and Briyah Bella Cruz. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Gloriosa Valenzuela and Liliosa Villamonte, along with many cherished relatives and friends. She now reunites in heaven with her parents, Jose Villamonte Sr. and Dolores Villamonte; her brothers, Jose Villamonte Jr. and Benjamin Villamonte; and her sister, Fe Maravilla.
Buena’s life was a testament to kindness, faith, and the power of family. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.ends.
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