Emilio Cruz

Emilio Cruz passed peacefully with his loving family at his side on Sunday December 21, 2025, at his residence.

He was born in San Juan Puerto Rico on August 27, 1965, the son of Edwin and Irma Garcia Cruz and came to the United States as a baby.

Emilio’s family settled in Winter Park Florida where he graduated from Winter Park High School. He went on to work as a licensed exterminator where he was recognized with multiple state awards for excellence in his field. Emilio met Carolyn in Florida and married in 1992 they enjoyed traveling extensively with their many friends. In 1998 they were blessed with the birth of their Triplets .2006 they moved to Ohio to raise their three children. 

He was owner and operator of Rhino pest control which he started in 2008. He enjoyed all his customers and the relationships he built with all of them. To him his customers were his friends.

Emilio’s passion was collecting and selling antiques, and he operated two locations in Columbiana antique stores. 

He enjoyed gardening and landscaping at his home and could often be seen working out at the gym daily.

Emilio and his family have been parishioners at Saint Patrick’s Church in Youngstown for many years.

He leaves to cherish the memory of him, his former wife Carolyn Cappabianca Cruz, who was by his side throughout his illness. Triplets are Marcos and Myca Cruz of Boardman and Mya (Joseph) Billec of Michigan. 

He also leaves his parents of Florida and two brothers Edwin (Lori) Cruz Jr., and their children and brother Brandon (Donna) Cruz of Florida. He also leaves many friends in Florida who checked in with him daily throughout his illness.

The family would like to thank the staff at Akeso Hospice for their excellent care and compassion shown by Emilio and his family

Family and friends may call on Sunday December 28, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Fox Funeral Home.

Prayers will be 10:15 a.m. Monday morning December 29, 2025, at the Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Patrick Church 1420 Oak Hill Ave. Youngstown, celebrated by Rev. John Rovnak.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. Boardman.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Emilio Cruz, please visit our floral store.