Jesus "Jesse" N. Cruz was a very loving being whose inner beauty was evident to everyone who knew him. At 20, he was a college wrestler and academic all-American who once said that he wanted to be remembered as "an honest, hardworking individual who was always willing to help out." On September 18, 2010, Jesse collapsed during his second match of the day and could not be saved. A few years prior, he told his mother he wanted to be an organ donor. Through his tissue and cornea donations he was able to help others in their time of need.

Jesus's Story

Jesus "Jesse" N. Cruz was a 20 year-old college wrestler and academic all-American. His faith was strong, and he was a loving big brother and son, and a mentor to other students who loved wrestling.

Jesse was a very loving and affectionate being whose inner beauty was evident to everyone who knew him. Children of all ages flocked to him because of his playful and innocent personality. "His big heart and beautiful smile will never fade from our hearts," noted his father Jesus.

Jesse became a skilled wrestler through hard work and dedication. In 2008 he placed fifth in California, one of the toughest high school state tournaments in the nation. On September 18, 2010, Jesse inexplicably collapsed during his second match of the day. Life-saving efforts were performed on the mat and at the hospital, but Jesse still succumbed.

Jesse once wrote that he wanted to be remembered as "an honest, hardworking individual who was always willing to help out" and that continues to this day. A few years prior to his passing, he told his mother he wanted to be a donor. Through his tissue and cornea donation, he was able to help others in their time of need.

Knowing that he helped enhance the lives of other people has been a form of consolation for his family. "Jesse's faith assures us that he is in the presence of God, and it is also a testament of his loving and giving nature," Jesus said. "Jesse will remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate to meet him and those that he has inspired after his passing."

A wrestling shirt with his image says "Champions Inspire Champions." And that's how his family envisions Jesse's legacy to live - inspiring others to live their lives to the fullest and be willing to give back. 

"To simply mourn one of God's true angels could never do Jesse justice," Jesus declared. "It is in celebrating his life and following his example that we can challenge ourselves to be better and help others through donation."