Bob Cruz, a two-term county supervisor who championed for
controlled growth, services for local children and the rights of
low-income residents, has died.
Cruz served two terms on the San Benito County Board of
Supervisors in District 2, from 1996 to 2004. He died early this
week in Texas after battling illness, according to friends.
Friend and former campaign adviser Ruben Lopez stressed how
Cruz’s biggest passion was controlled growth.
Bob Cruz, a two-term county supervisor who championed for controlled growth, services for local children and the rights of low-income residents, has died.
Cruz served two terms on the San Benito County Board of Supervisors in District 2, from 1996 to 2004. He died early this week in Texas after battling illness, according to friends.
Friend and former campaign adviser Ruben Lopez stressed how Cruz’s biggest passion was controlled growth.
“He wanted to see our county remain this beautiful oasis,” Lopez said.
He noted how Cruz continually advocated for programs serving local youths and that he was instrumental in the start of the YMCA. Lopez said there had been no communication at the county level about starting a YMCA until Cruz took action.
“Bob was responsible, first-hand responsible, for getting them,” said Lopez, of San Juan Bautista.
Friend Fernando Gonzalez pointed out how Cruz, along with wife Marian, often gave back in the community.
“Bob was really concerned for people who earned low incomes and (with) trying to raise their well-being,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez recalled Cruz’s talent for telling stories.
“Bob was just a really good man to be with,” he said. “He had a lot of good stories. You could have lunch with him, and it was really enjoyable.”
Before his career in politics, Cruz worked many years in the canning business. He was a foreman and involved in operations, Gonzalez said.
Cruz spent much of his career at San Benito Foods, but also worked at canneries in other areas such as Lodi and Del Monte, Gonzalez said.
