Armando L. Cruz-Rodz

Armando Luis Cruz-Rodz, also known as Dr. Cruz-Rodz, Deacon Armando, Señor Armando, Pop, Buelo, Tio and friend to many. Armando passed away November 25, 2020 at the age of 58. He was born April 14, 1962 to Luis Angel Cruz-Velez and Blanca Lydia Rodriguez-Figueroa in Lares, Puerto Rico. Armando earned his BS in Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico. He loved learning so much he earned several more degrees; in Art, Theology and a PhD in Microbiology Engineering. He was the S.T.E.M. Dean of OSU/OKC for several years and was currently a professor of Chemistry there. Armando served as Deacon at Holy Angels Catholic Church and prior to that, The Epiphany of The Lord Catholic Church. When Armando began his career, he taught Spanish for Putnam City schools during the day and served as adjunct professor nights. He also taught at Tulakes, Windsor Hills, DD Kirkland and Coronado Heights Elementary schools.As a deacon, he had involvement and service to the Byzantine Catholic Community. While Deacon Armando was known for his work in the Latino communities, his ministry to the Eastern Church was not as well known. He served the Byzantine Community of OKC as deacon and The Holy Family Theosis retreats (similar to Cursillo). Deacon Armando was godfather to many children in the Community. Whenever Holy Family Church received a request to visit a parish and speak about the Eastern Churches he would often travel with Fr. Seeton, sometimes offering Vespers or served Divine Liturgy. When they visited isolated Eastern families around Oklahoma once or twice a year, Armando would accompany Fr. Seeton. Deacon Armando was well loved by the Byzantine Catholic people.He was known for his basso profundo voice in chanting his parts of the Liturgy, he could keep up with any Russian deacon (who usually chant in deep tones). He loved the Eastern Churches and even his office at OSU/OKC had many icons and he would keep the Little Hours before them.Armando was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Luis Angel Jr., William Nelson. He is survived by his son, Derrick Cruz-Rodz and his wife Cheryl Lynn; grandchildren, D.W., Ayla, Arley and one on the way; one brother, Juan "Tony" Cruz-Rodriquez; nieces, Maiyiomi Rivera, Yomara Cruz-Torres, Blanca Cruz-Torres and Clarixa Cruz-Torres; great-nieces and nephews, Mia, Zamaya, Jeremiah, Cynthea, Prince, Manny and Lirio Amiir. He is also survived by many beloved colleagues, parishioners and friends. Armando was larger than life in both stature and heart with a smile as bright as his spirit. He will be truly missed. He will be remembered as a loving, faithful and self-giving deacon of the Church. An evening prayer service will be held 7:00 PM Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at Epiphany of The Lord Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Thursday, December 3, 2020 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Those wishing to honor him may do so by contributing to the cause he gave many hours and his heart to: The Holy Angels Youth Ministry.