Vera Cruess

WATERBURY - It is with profound sadness that the family of Vera Cruess, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, at the age of 98 at Complete Care of Middlebury after an extended illness. She was the beloved wife of the late Deacon Donald Cruess.

Vera was born on January 30, 1927, in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, England, the daughter of the late Charles and Jessica (Bowell) Mason. Vera’s beautiful journey as a wife, mother, and grandmother began during World War II, when she met her beloved husband, Donald, while he was stationed in England. Their love blossomed amid uncertain times, leading to their marriage and Vera’s courageous voyage to the United States aboard the Queen Mary — a testament to her adventurous spirit and steadfast devotion to family. Together, Vera and Donald built their home in Waterbury, where they lovingly raised eight children, embracing both the joys and challenges of parenthood with grace, patience, and humor. A cherished member of St. Francis Xavier Parish and its community, Vera gave freely of her time and talents. Vera was very active in the parish’s Ladies Guild and the South End Seniors Club where she very much enjoyed playing bingo and organizing cakes sales, most notably her famous chocolate chip cookies, which also were a great delight to her grandchildren and filled both their hearts and bellies, with joy. Our family thanks you, Mom — for every prayer you whispered on our behalf, for the countless sacrifices you made, for the thousands of hugs you shared, and for the unending love you poured into our lives. Your spirit will forever live in the heart of our family.

Vera is survived by her six children, 16 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her legacy of love and compassion. She is predeceased by two children, who are embraced lovingly in her memory. Vera Cruess touched the lives of many, and her spirit will continue to shine through the generations she leaves behind. As we remember her life, let us cherish the love, laughter, and warmth she so generously shared.

Funeral services for Mrs. Cruess will be held privately at the convenience of her family and she will be laid to rest next to her late husband, Donald. To honor Vera’s memory, donations to St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org would be greatly appreciated by her family. Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Care has been honored to care for Vera and the Cruess family. It only takes a moment to send a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to do so. To send a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.