La Sal loses a longtime resident and great man

A longtime resident of La Sal, Cruz Madrid, passed away quietly at his home on September 13.  
He was born August 16, 1935. He spent much of his life in La Sal working at the local uranium mines, among other occupations. He did a variety of work during his lifetime.
In recent years he and his wife Mary resided in Blanding where they worked at the grocery store there prior to coming “home” to La Sal to really retire.
Many folks in our village, whether newcomers or old-timers, knew Cruz. He was one of those fellows who would visit with you for a minute or hours, just to be friendly.  
He always had a story or a remembrance to tell. One of his favorite subjects during the years was his horse Petey. Many a local remembers his pride as he spoke of his pony.
Cruz wasn’t afraid to work. He was one of the strongest men you’d ever meet.
In his day he was a big man, tall and broadshouldered.  If you were up for a challenge or things got a little competitive, he could put most men down with just a handshake.
It’s not hard to find the home where Cruz and Mary live. It’s the neatest yard in town. Up until a few years ago you’d see him working in that yard, keeping it neat and tidy.  
It was the same with his vehicles. If he ever decided to sell anything he owned you could be guaranteed it was in tip-top condition. He was a perfectionist. 
The last few years had slowed Cruz down and old age crept up behind him as it does with all of us eventually. Prior to that you would find him most days walking down the road near his home for exercise.  
He and Mary had a long life together and the community will miss him as he had many friends here.
Funeral and burial services are as follows:  Viewing on September 28 at 7 p.m. Rosary. Funeral services at St Pius X Catholic Church in Moab on September 29 beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Moab.
Goodbye old friend.