A GoFundMe has been set up for Army veteran Randy Santiago Cruz, a Seattle Seahawks fan who died two days before Super Bowl LX.
Cruz, 72, of southwest Washington drew attention after the Seahawks sent him a "Salute to Service" care package while he received end-of-life care and rooted for his team, according to a Feb. 16 report by FOX 13 Seattle. Cruz reportedly hoped to live long enough to watch the big game taking place Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., when his Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots, but died two days before the contest.
His family is now working to fulfill his final wish to be buried in Puerto Rico beside his parents and brothers. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover the cost of bringing him home, according to the fundraiser page.
Military.com reached out to the Seattle Seahawks, the National Football League and Cruz’s family for comment.
The network reported in late January that family members said Cruz was determined to see the Seahawks reach Super Bowl LX. He received hospice care in southwest Washington and followed the magical playoff run from his bed.
The Seahawks responded with a care package tied to Salute to Service—a year-long initiative tied to military recognition, including league honors and partner support for military community programs. The package included team memorabilia and military themed gear.
Family members told the local station that the gesture lifted Cruz’s spirits. Seahawks colors filled his hospice room as the team advanced through the postseason.
His Final Wish Was to Go Home
Cruz told family members he wanted to be buried in Puerto Rico beside his parents and brothers.
Bringing him home from Washington to Puerto Rico requires coordination and expense. His family organized the GoFundMe campaign to raise money for transportation and burial costs.
Seahawks fans later gathered in downtown Seattle for the world championship parade following the team’s Super Bowl appearance. The local Fox syndicate spoke with Cruz’s son, Zachariah, about his father’s loyalty to the team.
Veterans who need end-of-life support can receive hospice and palliative care through Department of Veterans Affairs programs, depending on eligibility and setting, including Community Living Centers and other options.
