Cruz Alvarado was born in Bakersfield, CA and raised in Goleta, CA. He proudly served in the United States Army in WWII. He worked as a Ranch Hand and Maintenance Man for more than 40 years. He married Josephine Escobar in 1945 and they were happily married for 53 years until her death in 1998. Together they raised 4 children.

He is survived by his children Henry Alvarado (Elaine), Margaret Ruiz (Ramon), Mario Alvarado (Rosie) and Gloria Sosa (Victor). Also his grandchildren Rick Alvarado, Tisoc Alvarado, T.J. Alvarado, Enrique Ruiz (Teresa), Renato Ruiz, Rachel Alvarado, Andrea Koch (Trevor), Jessie Alvarado, Leticia Sosa, Victoria Sosa, Victor Sosa Jr. (Amanda), Esteban Alvarado and Christina Sosa. He had 9 great-grandchildren with 2 on the way. Cruz was a simple man with a great big heart who loved people. He loved to make people laugh. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and he will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

A memorial mass will be held on Friday, Oct. 22 at St. Raphael's Church in Goleta followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery.