Cruz Huerta, Jr

Cruz Huerta Jr., 69, passed away unexpectedly on November 15, 2025. Cruz was born on October 23, 1956, to Cruz S. Huerta Sr. and Lucia Huerta. A lifelong resident of Visalia, California, he attended Carrie Barnett Elementary School, Webster Elementary School, Green Acres Middle School, and Redwood High School. After graduating, Cruz attended San Jose State University before choosing to honor his country by serving in both the United States Army Corps and the National Guard. Throughout his life, Cruz worked in roles that reflected his strong work ethic, resilience, and dedication. He ultimately pursued a career with the California Highway Patrol, where he proudly served for 25 years before retiring. During his time as a CHP officer, he returned to school and earned his associate's degree. With support from his children, he later built a successful second career as the owner of his own real estate appraisal company. Cruz met the love of his life, Rosie, at a young age. What began as a simple friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership. They were married and spent the next 47 years together, raising three beautiful children: Michael, Corrina, and Catheryn. Cruz lived a full and vibrant life enriched by the hobbies he loved. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping with family, traveling the world, watching sports, restoring classic cars, and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends. His humor, warmth, and strength left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Cruz is survived by his loving wife, Rosie; his children, Cruz "Michael" (Nicole) and Catheryn; and his grandchildren, Sophia and Andre. He is also survived by his siblings Maria, Angela, Abel, Margaret, Marcy, Bobby, Christina, and Debra. He is preceded in death by his father, Cruz Huerta Sr.; his mother, Lucia Huerta; his brothers Jesse Vasquez and Benito Huerta; and his daughter, Corrina Huerta. Cruz's memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. A viewing will be held from 4-6pm on Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. A rosary will be held 6pm Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. A Mass of Christian Burial services will be held at 9:30am on Friday, December 5th, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 608 N. Cthurch Street, Visalia, with a graveside service to follow at 11am, Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Cruz Huerta, Jr

October 23, 1956 - November 15, 2025