Jaran Cruz

Below, one will read the obituary of Jaran's life (as it appeared in the paper).
First, as his wife, I want to share with you the man I love and honor. Jaran is so highly spiritual and was never afraid to share his faith and pray with another. We pray every day together; Jaran never asked God for anything, his every word was gratitude for what we were blessed with: our marriage and relationship, our children, our little farm, friends and family as well as the career he is so passionate about with Eliot Management Group. Jaran was Heaven Sent…He cherishes me and honors me as his wife, he loves to work out in the garden together and take care of our animals. We had so many dreams that will remain dreams. He is my Cowboy, my best friend, my husband, and the answer to every prayer I've ever uttered. My heart aches beyond belief.
When his Grandpa McKee passed away in March 2014, Jaran asked me if I would be sealed in the temple to him. This is the greatest wish of my wonderful husband I will fulfill. I am honored to have had him in my life for three very short years and eager to be his mate for eternity.
Every day Jaran's prayer before going to work included letting the Lord speak through him and help him be a good missionary. Every day he blessed us with his amazing laughter as it rang through our home. He always had a kiss and a hug for me and something to make me smile, a compliment, a story from work, singing a song to me, or a token of his affection.
I can easily say he is the most amazing man I have ever met and I am so blessed to have every precious moment we had on this earth together. I'll miss dancing and riding with you my Sweet Love, I'll miss your touch and your laughter and especially the look you have just for me. I hope to see you very soon….My forever love….
From his co-workers:
Tonight I raise a glass to one of the finest men I've ever had the privilege to know. Jaran was a friendship I will cherish eternally and one that I am forever grateful for. May the memories of his amazing laugh and monster bear hugs live within us all. The tears will fall, Lord knows they have, and our hearts will hurt but each one of us is a better person because of him. God's blessings my friend. Until we meet again.
Your loving friend
Kody
And another one:
People like Jaran are few and far between. More times than I can count I remember wishing more people in this world were like him. Unceasing positivity. An immeasurable love for life and obvious love and pride for his wife and family, and constantly uplifting and supportive to all of us. He would see the good in every single thing. His infectious laughter. His desire to learn and grow. We are certainly left with such a heartbreaking void and Kim, my heart goes out to you fully. Words are just words but I hope you can feel how much love we feel and how our hearts feel about Jaran. May God bless and be with you. Let's all remember the impression he has left us, all try to be better versions of ourselves, always showing kindness to all, and always make sure the people you love know it.
And another co-worker:
Every once and a while you run into those special individuals who wear who they are on their sleeve. Jaran was one of those special people who was friends to everyone he came in contact with ... he always had a smile and would laugh at any joke no matter how dumb. He just made you feel better inside.
Our team was better having him there. He promoted the team and the unity of it. He showed by example what true work ethic is and how to achieve success.
His example will live on and hopefully we can all have in some part what he brought to each of us making the world he lived in a better place.

Obituary~
Jaran Cruz, 33, was called home too soon, Saturday August 23, 2014 due to a tragic drowning. Jaran was born October 9, 1980 in Murray UT, to Santos and Darla McKee Cruz. Jaran is a friend to all, outgoing, funny, compassionate and kind as well as adventurous.
Jaran graduated from Copper Hills High School in 1999. He was an avid baseball, football, basketball, and cross country athlete. He had a love of the outdoors, and animals, especially horses which gave him the opportunity to drive the horse carriages in downtown Salt Lake. He is also a certified fire fighter/EMT and Certified Massage Therapist. His career paths lead him to Eliot Management Group where he became a successful business man. At the time of his death, he was preparing to open an office in Louisville, Kentucky for Eliot.
Jaran is the father of Madison, LaShell, Jaran Jr (JJ), and Angelina Cruz. In 2014 he married the love of his life, Kimberly Cruz. With this union they united 5 additional children; Kristin, Bobby, Bonnie, EnChante', and Joshua. They also have 9 grandchildren; Rebekah, Alyssa, Cowen, Jonas, Finnigan, Wilhelmina, Adrien Joyce, Jayden and Adyson. He is a proud father and loves all of his children and grand -children. He is survived by his loving wife, children, grand-children, father, mother and brothers; Robert, Preston and Travis Cruz, Chase Lopez, and Trevan Cruz (Elizabeth), plus numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by grandparents, Eleanor & Ladislao Cruz and Jack & Reta McKee.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2014 at 1 PM at Jenkins Soffe South Valley, 1007 W South Jordan Parkway (10600 So.). A viewing from 11:00-12:45 is open to the public also at Jenkins Soffe South Valley. Online condolences and further details of Jaran's amazing life can be seen at www.jenkins-soffe.com
Three Jaran Cruz memorial funds are set up; JP Morgan Chase branch, or https://www.youcaring.com/memorial-fundraiser/jaran-cruz-memorial-/223973, or www.gofundme.com/dj06z4 to help with his family expenses.

Funeral Home:
Jenkins-Soffe South Valley
1007 W. South Jordan Parkway
South Jordan, UT 84095