Juan Cruz Pinero Sr., age 90, of Vineland, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Monday, December 23 2024 at Inspira Medical Center, Vineland.

Juan was born in Gurabo, Puerto Rico to the late Eulogio Cruz and Chala Pinero. He was a graduate of Carmen D Ortiz with the class of 1946. Juan then relocated to Vineland, N.J. Prior to his retirement Juan worked as a first-class cook for 25 years at Casa Di Bertacchi in Vineland.

He was predeceased by his daughter Gloria Centeno in 2013 and her husband Pablo Centeno in 2024. His son-in-law Eddie Hughes (2020) and Raul Lopez (2019). His two brothers Gerino Cruz Pinero and Miguel Cruz Pinero, his sister, Justina Cruz Pinero (2023) and his beloved wife, Emma Louise Cruz (Sulder) 2008.

Juan is survived by three brothers, Hector Cruz Pinero, Eulogio Cruz Pinero and Eugenio Cruz Pinero. His two sisters, Margarita Cruz Pinero and Martha Cruz Pinero. Also survived by his 7 loving children, Charles Cruz of Vineland, NJ., Juan P. Cruz Jr. of Vineland, NJ., Tony and his wife Debbie Cruz of Atlanta GA, Carlos and his wife Vera Cruz of Vineland, NJ., Pedro and his wife Terri Cruz, and two daughters Jaunita  Cruz (Lopez) (Raul Lopez) and Annette Cruz (Eddie Hughes). He also survived many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

Family and friends may gather on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 10:00-11:30 AM at the Chestnut Assembly of God Church, 2554 E. Chestnut Ave. Vineland, followed by Juan's service at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, 741 E. Walnut Rd. Vineland.

Arrangements are by the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.