Manny Cruz, a longtime San Diego journalist, passed away in his home in Kimball, Michigan, Monday, October 20, at age 83. He had moved from San Diego six years ago to be near his son, Matthew, and two grandchildren.
His long career in San Diego journalism began in the mid-1960s at the Daily Californian in El Cajon, beginning as a reporter before becoming a copy editor and taking the responsibility for training young college interns. He then spent eleven years at the Daily Transcript as wire editor and special sections editor.
He left the Daily Transcript to become editor of the Star-News, a weekly newspaper in Chula Vista, where he wrote a weekly column and supervised reporters, freelance writers, and photographers. Later, he became editor of Antiques & Collectables, a newsmagazine in El Cajon.
He joined San Diego Metropolitan Magazine, now SD METRO Magazine, in 2004. He became the magazine’s managing editor in 2009, a post he held until his retirement earlier this year.
“Manny loved the news business. He often said he never could have imagined doing anything else. He could be a demanding editor, and the publications he worked for were better because of it. His contributions to our magazine were many. A good friend has passed,” said Bob and Rebeca Page.
He saw active duty in the Air Force as a member of the 7406 Support Squadron at Rhein-Main AFB, Frankfurt, Germany. He was a graduate of San Diego State University.
He leaves behind daughter Cindy Cruz Legg of Huntington, West Virginia, and son Matthew Cruz of Kimball, Michigan, six grandchildren, and sisters Irene Clark and Mary Young, both of San Diego.