Franco Barrientez Cruz, age 69 years, lifelong Great Bend, Kansas resident, passed away on Tuesday morning, December 19, 2023 at Azria Health Woodhaven in Great Bend. Franco was born on March 10, 1954 at Great Bend to Juan and Minga (Barrientez) Cruz. He was united in marriage to Karen A. Stoskopf on May 9, 1980 in Great Bend. They later divorced, but remained close friends. Throughout his life, Franco worked in the oilfield, and as a mechanic and welder before he became disabled in 2009. His passions were working on old cars, watching Westerns on television, and a love for animals of all kinds. Franco loved showing off his large collection of tools. He was very popular and loved to take the time to talk to friends everywhere he went. Franco was a member of the Church of Christ at Great Bend.
Survivors include a son, John Cruz of Great Bend; two daughters: Shilo Cruz (& Timothy Galliart) and Sarah Cruz (& David Alseike) all of Great Bend; two grandchildren: Trenten Vsetecka and Sophie Cruz; his former wife, Karen Gerhart of Great Bend; a brother, Oxley Barrientez; and numerous cousins. Franco was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Jesse Flores and a grand-daughter JuneAnna Cruz-Gray.
Cremation has been chosen and a joint Celebration of Life Service for Franco Cruz and Jesse Flores will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at Church of Christ in Great Bend, Kansas. The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Franco Cruz Funeral Expense Fund.