Emilio Cruz 1965-2025

He was born Aug. 27, 1965, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 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, and in 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 St. Patrick 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; his triplets, Marcos and Myca Cruz of Boardman, and Mya (Joseph) Billec of Michigan; his parents of Florida; and two brothers, Edwin (Lori) Cruz Jr. and their children, and 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 to Emilio and his family.

Family and friends may call 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at the Fox Funeral Home.

Prayers will be 10:15 a.m. Monday, Dec. 29, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown, celebrated by the Rev. John Rovnak.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends of Emilio may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the Cruz family.

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