Maria Catalina Cruz

Maria Catalina Cruz, 73, of New Britain, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, surrounded by her loving family at the Hospital of Central Connecticut, New Britain. She was the beloved wife of Ismael Cruz. Born in San German, Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Francisco and Justina (Maurosa) Rodriguez. Maria has been a long time New Britain resident, coming from Puerto Rico 32 years ago. She worked for many years at Creed Monarch Co., retiring in 2006. Maria will be remembered for her gentle spirit, loving heart, humility, devotion to family, and her love of cooking. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. In addition to her husband, Maria is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law; Ramona and Daniel Kondracki of Bristol, Rita and Rob Zapor of New Britain, four brothers in Puerto Rico, her grandchildren, Rosalie, Robert, and Michael, and her great granddaughter, Alicja. She was predeceased by one brother. Funeral services and burial will be held in San German, Puerto Rico. A time of remembrance will be held at the funeral home at a later date. Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Lymphoma and Leukemia Society, Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202, or the George Bray Cancer Center, 100 Grand St., New Britain, CT 06050, or the Smilow Cancer Center, Closer to Free Fund, P.O. Box 7611, New Haven, CT 06519-0611.