Ramon Baquero-Cruz

Ramon ‘Ray’ Baquero-Cruz passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his life and wife of 47 years, Jolee Baquero-Cruz after a 2-year battle with cancer, where he fought furiously and courageously. Born in Bogota, Columbia he immigrated to Manhattan, NY living in various cities/states over the years until he joined the U.S. Air Force during the Viet Nam era. The U.S. Air Force was a rewarding career allowing Ray, Jolee, and their 4 children to travel the World until he honorably retired in April 1994 at Offutt AFB as an E-6 rank. After the U.S. Air Force, Ray served as a staff member for the Heartland Red Cross chapter for 15 years. He also volunteered as a Water Safety and Health Instructor for the American Red Cross for 20 years. Ray was very involved in his community serving as a coach for various youth programs including High School and club swimming. Most presently, Ray worked as a Medical Interpreter/Translator for Children’s Nebraska. As an avid music lover, Ray often had music playing when you’d come to visit. Let’s just say his range of music was eclectic ranging from jazz to rock. Not only did he love music, but he loved people. He had a kind heart and was welcoming to everyone he met. To know Ray, is to love Ray. Ray was a devoted husband, proud father and ‘Bolo’. He is preceded in death by his mother Blanca Lilia Cruz and father Ramon Baquero-Afanador. Survived by loving wife, Jolee Baquero-Cruz; children, Jaime (Alison) Baquero-Cruz, Joey (Aniko) Baquero-Cruz, Blanca Baquero-Cruz, Ramon Jr. Baquero-Cruz; grandchildren, Jaime, Gabriel, Dominic, and Ava Baquero-Cruz; Maya and Nora Baquero-Cruz; Michael ‘Tre’ Miller.