Erika Cruz Memorial Bench

Dear Community, Family and Friends

Many of you knew and loved Erika. Some of you may not have met her. Everyone who knew Erika was touched by her beautiful and vibrant spirit, her kindness, passion for life and love of others.

Tragically, on February 24, 2021 Erika "Xiomy" Cruz was taken from us by a drunk driver. This unimaginable loss has left a void in our lives and in our community.

In honor of Erika's memory and the incredible impact she had on all of us, we have come together as family and friends to create a lasting tribute. We are organizing a memorial bench to be placed at Lincoln Elementary School, where this heartbreaking incident occurred. The school, its personnel, the school district, and the county have all joined us in this endeavor, underscoring the importance of remembering Erika in a beautiful and meaningful way.

Erika was a beacon of light, a cherished daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter, and friend. Her kind and compassionate nature touched the lives of so many in our community. She selflessly gave of herself and left an indelible imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her. It is our collective duty to ensure that her legacy lives on.

The memorial bench, expertly crafted by the family with the assistance of Andersons Granite and Monument, will provide a place for us to come together and remember Erika. It will also serve as a powerful symbol to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Our goal is to prevent others from experiencing the profound loss we have endured.

To make this memorial bench a reality, we are reaching out to our community for support. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Your generosity will help us complete this tribute to Erika's life and spread the crucial message that drunk driving takes lives.

We invite you to be a part of this beautiful event, to honor Erika's memory, and to join us in creating a lasting impact. Together, we can ensure that her spirit lives on and that her tragic loss serves as a poignant reminder to all.

Thank you for your compassion, your support, and your commitment to our community.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Lenaliz Velez-Morales on behalf of the Cruz-Cortez Family and the Memorial Bench Committee: Sara Schmoll, Scott, Jim