Naugatuck-Joaquim R. Cruz, beloved husband of Maria (Martins) Cruz, passed away with  his family by his side at Waterbury Hospital on March 18, 2026 at the age of 70.

He was born in Zebral, Montalegre, Portugal on November 5, 1955 and came to the United States with his family 39 years ago and settled in Naugatuck.  He had worked for Manafort Brothers Incorporated for many years until his retirement.  Joaquim was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Church and the Portuguese Sports Club Inc. of Waterbury.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, watching soccer, and he was an avid fan of S.L. Benefica.  He loved spending time with his family and friends in his backyard.

In addition to his wife Maria, he leaves his family to honor his legacy Paulo Cruz and his wife Ana Paula of Brookfield, Jennifer Fernandes and her husband Emilio of Naugatuck; his loving grandchildren Paige and Aden Cruz, Mila Fernandes, and Nathan and Elyse Abrantes; his brother Antonio Cruz and his sister Maria Rua da Cruz, both of Portugal; his brother in law Jose Martins and his wife of Naugatuck; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Family and friends may visit on Monday March 23, 2026 from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Naugatuck Valley Memorial/Fitzgerald Zembruski Funeral Home, 240 North Main Street, Naugatuck.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow an 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 2071 Baldwin Street in Waterbury.  Burial will be private.  To send an on line condolence or share a memory, please visit www.naugaguckvalleymemorial.com