DOWNEY - Cruz Patino Arias, an American war hero who earned the Purple Heart during World War II, died Nov. 9 in Hemet. He was 87.He was born in Watts on May 3, 1923 to Blas and Dolores. He was a longtime Downey resident. Arias served in the Army during WWII and, in addition to the Purple Heart, received medals for Good Conduct. He is survived by his wife, Amelia; sons, Cruz, George and Robert; brothers, Frank and Robert; sisters, Carmen and Lola; 16 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren. Services were held in his honor Nov. 19 at St. Raymond's Catholic Church. Interment was at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside.

********** Published: December 9, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 34