Manuel Ramon Dela Cruz

Manuel Ramon Dela Cruz passed away of lung cancer on August 1, 2020 after a courageous five-year battle, at his home of 34 years in Olympia, Washington. He was born January 22, 1941, to Benito and Carlota Dela Cruz in Roma, Texas. He left Texas as a young man to find his way in life. He also resided in Clarkston, Washington (1960-67). Manuel was married to the late Margaret Long in 1960, and in 1979, married Patricia Ingram. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and served in Vietnam. He briefly attended Centralia Community College. Professionally, he worked for Washington State Dept. of Transportation (1970-78), and as a truck driver and motor pool manager for Washington State Dept. of Corrections/Correctional Industries, where he retired after 28 years. Manuel was a friendly person; he never met a stranger. He made an impression on everyone he met, and they always remembered him fondly. Manuel was generous with his hugs, and loved all babies. Manuel always had a soft spot for children and donated regularly to children’s charities. Manuel enjoyed woodworking, building, RVing, playing spades, and watching westerns. He was a member of the Catholic Church. Manuel is survived by his wife, Patricia “Trish” Dela Cruz; sons, James Ramon Dela Cruz and Rodrigo L. Dela Cruz; daughters, Tammy (Tyra) Cruz, Cheri D. Dela Cruz and Teresa E. Dela Cruz (Tim); seven grandchildren; and four great grandchildren; brothers, Joe Dela Cruz of Molalla, Oregon, and Raul Dela Cruz of Eugene, Oregon; and sister, Chita Dela Cruz of Bakersfield, California. He was predeceased by his parents; and brothers, Benito “Benny,” Rey, and Mondo; and sister, Lily. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Please leave condolences or share memories and photos on the Tribute Wall to the left.