Michael ‘Mike’ Cruz Canisales

Michael ‘Mike’ Cruz Canisales

  Michael “Mike” Cruz Canisales, 68, was born Nov. 20, 1949, in Ray, AZ.  He was born to Celestino Canisales and Antonia Cruz Canisales.  He grew up in San Pedro. 

  He is survived by his wife, Rosalia, of 44 years.  He is also survived by his children, Michael (Mia) and Francisca; six grandchildren, Analisa, Mariela, Javier, Fabian and Mykaela; two great-grandchildren, Anevay Gomez and Miguel Estrada Jr.; and sisters, Mary and Veronica (Ronnie).  He was preceded in death by his brothers, Victor, Fidel, and Chris.

  He graduated from Hayden High School in 1969.  He ran cross country for four (4) years.  He also did long distance running for the track team in high school and received numerous awards.  He was a member of the Letterman’s Club.  He graduated with an Associate’s degree from Eastern Arizona College in 1979.  He majored in Physical Education at Arizona State University for 1 and 1/2 years. 

  He enjoyed hunting, the outdoors, gardening, music, dancing, his grandchildren, and loved the Arizona State Sun Devils.  Although he had two (2) children, he raised many nephews, nieces, and children in the neighborhood.  He was a Godfather to many and a great role model to many.  He volunteered as a Little League Coach for 12 years for the Cardinals and A’s.  He also volunteered as a Softball Summer League Coach.  He was a landscaping/gardening volunteer at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.  He was an alter server from the fourth grade through high school.    

  He retired from the ASARCO Hayden Smelter in July 2015.  He worked for 41 years as a furnaceman and blacksmith.  He battled cancer for over a year and a half and never once complained.  He always maintained a positive attitude and his faith in God.  He will never be forgotten.  May he rest in peace.

  Services for Michael were held on Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018 at St. Joseph Parish in Hayden, AZ. He was laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery.

   Griffith Mortuary is providing exceptional family service. 101 Johnston Dr., Kearny, AZ 85137. Ph. (520) 363-5353. GriffithMortuary.com.