Michael C. Cruze

Michael Christopher Cruze, 43, passed away unexpectedly, October 3, 2022, but his warm spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

He was born in Utica, November 2, 1978, a son of Edward Jr. and Susan (Giangolini) Cruze. After graduating Frankfort High School in 1997, Michael worked in home energy savings programs, recently relocated to Rochester to begin a new career in real estate, working alongside his sister. His new adventure was just beginning.

His passions included mountain biking, being outdoors having adventures, Red Bull, four letter words, and spending time with his beloved nieces and nephews. He was always the fun uncle and there was never a dull moment when he was in the room. He shared an unbreakable bond with his nephew and Godson, Camrin, and the pair could always be found together. Mike thrived on teaching him naughty words and jokes, prank calling the family and giggling, watching tv shows, playing golf, and being his best buddy. We will all need to help Camrin carry those memories now in his heart.

He was beloved by everyone who ever met him; A fantastic son, uncle, brother, and friend to anyone he ever met, regardless of their walk of life. He was one of a kind and will never be forgotten but forever remembered and missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

He is already deeply missed and survived by his parents, Edward and Susan; siblings Kimberly Cruze-Tollerup, Kelli Cruze and Gary Barney, and Karri and Joe Mazza; his beloved nephews and nieces, Camrin, Quinlen, Cloe, CarlyJo, and Beckham; aunts and uncles, cousins, lifelong friends, and Godparents, Carmen Faccioli and Charlene Mazurowski. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Ed Sr. and Jenny Cruze and Albert Sr. and Trudell Giangolini. Michael is already at peace, joining his beloved Uncle Teddy for a cigarette, beer, and unlimited laughs in the sky.

While he didn’t always let his soft side show, Michael was a lover of dogs. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to your local animal shelter or dog rescue in his memory.

His funeral will be held on Monday, October 10, 2022, 10:30 a.m., at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Relatives and friends may call on Sunday, 1 to 3 p.m., at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., corner of Mohawk St., Utica. Private interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

All those Red Bulls and you finally got your wings. Until we meet again, Bubba…

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