Our beloved Paul P. Cruz, 66, passed away peacefully in Las Vegas on Feb. 10, 2015. He was born on Sept. 11, 1948, in Las Vegas, to J.P. Cruz and Susie Cruz. He attended Robertson High School graduating in 1966. He enlisted in the United States Navy serving two tours of duty in Vietnam stationed aboard the Naval Destroyer USS Joseph Strauss. Following his naval discharge, he attended New Mexico Highlands University, earning a bachelor of science and a master of science degree in psychology. He also pursued doctoral studies in child psychology at the University of New Mexico. Paul's intellectual ability enabled him to become a self-taught tradesmen in many crafts from jewelry making to carpentry. He enjoyed everything outdoors, from skiing and hiking to fishing and sailing, and was happiest enjoying mother nature with his children. He loved making people laugh and couldn't resist telling silly jokes in order to do so. Paul was very proud of his children and always found a reason to discuss their many accomplishments to show these feelings. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, J.P. Cruz, Susie Cruz; brothers, David Cruz, Samuel Cruz, and niece, Patricia Cruz. He is survived by his three children, Javier Cruz, Melbourne, Australia; Anika Buckley and husband. Patrick Buckley, San Francisco, Calif.; Jonah Cruz, Albuquerque; and granddaughter, Fiona Aurora Buckley. He is survived by his sisters, Alice Gallegos and husband, Edward Gallegos, Stella Tapia and husband, Danny Tapia, half-brother, Erminio Cruz, wife Josie, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Rite of Committal will be held at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.