Andy Cruz, 47, of Rockford, died on January 22, 2026. He was born on July 2, 1978, in Chicago, the son of Andres Cruz Rosario and Anna Virgin Alvarado.
Andy was a graduate of Robert Clemente High School, Class of 1996, and later earned his HVAC certification from Coyne American Institute in Chicago. He was united in marriage to Jessica Rivera on December 29, 2005.
Andy was employed at Americacold in Belvidere as a fork lift operator. He was a member of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW).
Above all, Andy was a loving and devoted father who was incredibly proud of his sons and cherished every moment spent with them. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing games on his PS5, bird watching in his backyard, and working on his Mazda. He was an avid collector of Jordan sneakers, loved adding new tattoos, and found joy in cooking. He was a fan of Bad Bunny.
Family meant everything to Andy. He was kind, sensitive, caring, and known for his warm hospitality and welcoming spirit.
Andy is survived by his wife, Jessica Rivera; his sons, Andy Isaiah Cruz and Gabriel Jesus Cruz; his sisters, Diana Cruz and Jeanette (Benjamin Otero) Cruz; his mother-in-law, Martha Alicia Rivera; father-in-law, Arturo Rivera; sister-in-law, Araceli (Bernardo Guillen) Rivera; closest nieces, nephews and loved ones; Frida Guillen, Salma Guillen, Luz Diane Diaz, Melanie Otero, Natalie Otero, Benjamin Otero, Alexander Lajewski, Emilio Lajewski, Jaime Gabriel Lajewski; close friends, Jose Lebron and Joel Jimenez; and his beloved mutt of "Mexican and Puerto Rican" heritage, Sky.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved dog, Leo.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 5:00 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 4301 N. Main Street, Rockford. Cremation rites will be accorded.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.graceFH.com .