Lorenzo R. Cruz

Lorenzo R. Cruz, MD

December 18, 1936 - December 2, 2021 

He always had the right words without having to say many. A quiet man who spoke volumes through his eyes and actions, Dr. Lorenzo R. Cruz left this world on December 2, 2021 to continue his life’s work from above.  

Born December 18,1936 to Valentin and Consuelo Cruz, Lorenzo lived his earlier years in Macabebe, Pampanga and Manila, Philippines. He attended Manila Central University Medical School and fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a physician. During that time, Lorenzo befriended and won over fellow medical student, Norma Picio with his undeniable charm and good looks. Upon graduation, the adorable couple married, had their 1st child (Lorenzo, Jr.) and began making plans to immigrate to the United States of America. 

After a brief time on the East Coast, Lorenzo moved his family to Ohio where he practiced as a house physician. While in Ohio, their second child (Lou-Ellen) was born and skillfully delivered by Lorenzo when time ran short to make it to the hospital safely. This was his first and only delivery outside of a hospital and undeniably his most meaningful. 

The now family of four relocated to Kentucky where Lorenzo began his residency in Radiation Oncology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). He commuted weekly between his home in Louisville and Indianapolis for 1 year until a spot at the University of Louisville opened up. Lorenzo recounted this time as challenging since money was tight while both he and Norma wrapped up their schooling supporting 2 young children, but always credited their friends and family with providing the support they needed.  

Soon after the birth of their third child (Melissa), Lorenzo was recruited by Radiation Oncology Associates, SC. Lorenzo accepted the private practice position and relocated his family to Green Bay, WI where he practiced at St. Vincent Hospital until his retirement. A compassionate physician, Lorenzo protected the life of others as if it were his own. His ability to comfort patients and the dedication he offered to families throughout treatment is a testament to his infallible character and his unwillingness to sacrifice quality of care. 

Lorenzo was a friend. Always welcoming and unassuming, he enjoyed the company of others young and old. Those who met him were taken in by the warmth in his eyes and his perceptive counsel. He treated friends as family and as such, many adopted Lorenzo as their brother, father or grandfather.  

Lorenzo was a storyteller. He loved to recount stories of past misfortunes and near misses. The playfulness in which he told stories was captivating. Most times, he was the one laughing loudest at his own punchline! His laugh bellowed from his belly and caused his shoulders to jolt up-and-down in unison. The sound of his laugh was one you recognized from across the room.  

Lorenzo was a collector. He tucked away old coins and various items he felt might be “worth something someday”. His pièce de résistance–a 1979 Corvette. But unlike many other car collectors, Lorenzo found delight in encouraging others to unlatch the T-tops and go for a ride. He enthusiastically handed over the keys for high school parades and dances. If you showed interest in his car, he wanted you to go for a spin at least around the block.  

Lorenzo was a family man. He was a loving husband, father and “Lolo” to his grandchildren. He was often seen at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and theatre performances. He attended graduations and religious milestones without hesitation. He enjoyed celebrating life together and would relish the opportunity to sing “Happy Birthday” even if it meant just leaving a recorded message. He was inexhaustibly proud of the talent, intellect and tenacity of his family members. They were his ultimate joy! 

Lorenzo was a protector. He spent a lifetime serving, nourishing and sheltering others with grace and empathy. He cultivated his God given talents and nurtured the gifts he was offered. Keeping those around him safe from harm, especially his loved ones, was his life’s calling. 

Jeremiah 3:15 says: “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding."

Lorenzo was a blessing. To know him was to know the goodness and love of God. He will be deeply missed.

Lorenzo is survived by his wife of 55 years Norma; his 3 children Lorenzo (Annette Hauser) Cruz (Madison, WI), Lou-Ellen Cruz-Reznicek (Bernard Reznicek), Melissa Cruz-Cuene (Michael Cuene); 6 grandchildren Connor Cruz, Madeline Cruz, Alexandra Cruz; Sophia Reznicek; Stella Cuene and Luciana Cuene. He is also survived by his siblings Angeles Cruz del Rosario, Andrea Cruz Asuncion and Jose Cruz (Linda Cruz). He is preceded in death by his parents Valentin and Consuelo Cruz and brother-in-law, Jose Asuncion. 

We welcome family and friends to Resurrection Catholic Church, 333 Hilltop Drive, Allouez, on Saturday, December 18 from 9:45-11:15am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30am with Fr. Tom Reynebeau officiating with Fr. Judah Pigon, MF assisting. The service will also be livestreamed at gbres.org/live 

Private entombment will be in Allouez Mausoleum. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.  

In lieu of other expressions, memorials will be collected by the family for a cause to be determined.