Lawrence Raymond Escarciga

Lawrence Raymond Escarciga, known also as “Larry Cruz” was born on 09/28/1943 in Los Angeles, California.

At the age of 78, he suffered a massive stroke and passed away on June 4th, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.  Our family would like to express their gratitude to the many staff members at IMC Hospital who oversaw his care. The urgency and compassion that you gave our father will never be forgotten.

In his younger years, he joined the Military, which took him to Korea and Vietnam and eventually brought him to Utah, where he met the love of his life, Lucille. They got married in August of 1966.  Soon after, they had five beautiful children that were the center of his universe; he cherished them profoundly.

He was larger than life. His career as a boxer was something he was always proud of, especially the fact that he got to get in the ring with Gene Fullmer. He wore many hats, which also included being a volunteer firefighter for Midvale City. He proudly served in the National Guard until 1991. He was also in a Mariachi band, where he sang and played the Guitarone.  He was infamous, by way of his many, many hobbies. He had a long career at the Delta Center working with the Utah Jazz, where family and friends would often spot him on TV.  They would then call to say they saw him with some of the greats like Thurl Bailey, Karl Malone and Mark Eaton.

Dad truly was a free-spirited man, especially when cruising on his motorcycle, which allowed him to ride and be part of the Guardian Angels. His life was certainly never dull!

His sense of humor was like no other.  He was one of a kind.  What sums dad up best is he often pretended to be ornery, and sometimes he was, but he was incredibly loving, giving and would do anything for you.
He played the role of father to many and his arms were always open. He was truly our rock! Mom summed it up best by saying “He will be deeply missed for the rest of our lives.”

He is preceded in death by two sons Frank and Baby Larry. He is survived by his wife Lucille, his daughters Valarie Escarciga, Tammy (Louis) Paul, Jodie (Dan) Keller, and his precious grandbabies Justin, Frankie and Joey.

A viewing will be held at Goff Mortuary, 8090 S. State Street, Midvale, UT on Thursday, June 9th from 6:00 – 7:30 pm, followed by the Rosary. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 10th, at St. Therese Church, 624 W. Lennox Street, Midvale, UT, with a celebration of life starting at 10:00 am. Mass will begin at 11:00 am, interment to follow at Midvale City Cemetery.  There will be a luncheon after the conclusion of services at the St. Therese Parrish Hall at 624 W. Lennox Street, Midvale, Utah.