Raymond Cruz Martinez

October 3, 1966 - February 12, 2021

ADRIAN – Raymond Cruz Martinez, a machine operator/ hi-lo driver at Kirchhoff Automotive and life-long resident of Adrian, MI, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 12, 2021, at the age of 54, during his stay at St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor hospital due to health complications. Ray is survived by his mother; his best friend Alice; his children, Aria, Cruz ( Jordan) and Casey; his brother Steve; his sister Ruth (Marc); all of his nieces and nephews which there is too many to name. He is predeceased by his father, aunts and uncles. Ray was born in Adrian on October 3, 1966 to Raymond and Angelica Martinez. He graduated from Adrian high school in 1984. Ray was a devoted father and Cowboys fan. He collected baseball and football cards. His favorite thing to do was watch the Dallas Cowboys football games and spend time with his children. He was a member of Jesus Is Lord Ministries. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. A memorial service is scheduled for 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at Jesus Is Lord Ministries in Adrian. Flowers, donations and condolences may be offered at 3000 W. Beecher Rd. Adrian, MI, 49221. Arrangements for cremation were entrusted to the care of Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian. Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been set up on Facebook for Ray’s children. We would like to thank all of Ray’s family and friends who have helped during this difficult time. Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me, I took his hand when I heard Him call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh to love, to work or play, Tasks left undone must stay that way, I found that Peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy, A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Oh yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savored so much, Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief, Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now – He set me free.