Gilbert "Beto" Santa Cruz, 93 of Pirtleville, AZ passed away, February 28th, 2017 in Tucson, AZ. Gilbert was born February 4th, 1924 in Phoenix, AZ to Jesus and Theresa Santa Cruz. The eldest of eight children, Gilbert grew up in Douglas attending schools until the age of 16 when he enlisted in the United States Army. While stationed in Abilene, TX in December of 1941, his age was discovered. He was told he was "just a kid" and was being discharged from the Army. While waiting for his discharge papers to be finalized, Pearl Harbor was attacked resulting in WWll. Immediately, Gilbert was told to report back to base and his impending discharge was never completed. Gilbert continued to serve his country until 1947 when he was honorably discharged from the United States Army. During his service, Gilbert became a paratrooper and most importantly was part of the distinguished 158th Regimental Combat team, "The Bushmasters". He served in Panama helping secure the Panama Canal. He then took part in two major battles. One at Luzon in the Philippines and at Noemfoor in New Guinea. His company was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. General Mac Arthur referred to his unit as "The greatest fighting combat team ever deployed for battle." Gilbert earned many prestige medals including the Purple Heart, 2 Bronze Stars and the WW Victory Medal. His love for his family was unmeasurable and remains his greatest accomplishment. In 1945, he married Frances "Panchita" Santa Cruz and remained devoted to her till her passing in 2001. Together they had four children. Gilbert worked for Phelps Dodge in Douglas, until his retirement in 1987. He had a love of reading books, enjoyed listening to music, and spending time with his family. He is survived by his children, Velma Estrada (Manny) Bertina Shirley, Sandra Sloan, and Gilbert Santa Cruz Jr., 16 grandchildren, Saul, Celina, Sabrina, Valerie, Shawn, Korrine, Edward, Nicholas, Jaqueline, Catharine, Tony, Nicole, Christopher, Samantha, Roxelle, and Danielle, 32 great grandchildren, 8 great-great grandchildren, and his brothers Luis and David. He was preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, and his beloved daughter, Cynthia Tinsley. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 6, 2017 at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Pirtleville, Arizona. Viewing will be held at 9:00 am followed by a Rosary at 10:00 am and Mass at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at the Pirtleville Cemetery with Military Honors by the Fort Huachuca Honor Guard, the American Legion and VFW. A Reception will follow at the American Legion.