Lito was born on March 17, 1946 in Binmaley, Pangasinan, Philippines. He was preceeded in death by his Parents, Teofilo & Adela de la Cruz. Lito was the second eldest of 4 siblings, 2 Brothers, Delfin & Noli and Sister Helen. Lito attended Binmaley Catholic High School, during that time, he met the Love of his Life Luzviminda Lopez aka “Mahal”. He completed his BS degree in Mechanical Engineering at National University.
Lito and Minda married in December of 1968 and started their journey and adventures to live the “American Dream” to the USA in 1969. Rooted in the Bay Area, Oakland to San Jose, to the Sacramento Area and would frequent hometown of SJ for over 4 decades.
Lito worked as a Mechanical Engineer for over 10 years at United Pumps, San Jose. Endeavored in his own businesses and worked at IBM for several years where he and Minda retired.
Lito enjoyed spending time with family and friends and traveling. Many nights spent at “Fiestas” Enjoying dinner and dancing with his Caloocan Club and Classmates.
A few of his pastimes in his younger days were playing basketball, going to Bingo nights and many family weekend getaways to Reno and Lake Tahoe. Lito, a gambler in nature enjoyed Mahjong nites at family parties and Poker Nites in the local casinos. He also really loved his Bay Area Basketball Team, The Golden State Warriors.
Lito was a risk taker, opportunist and inspired others to take chances. Many followed in his footsteps along the way. Lito took chances in investment opportunities, business ventures and always took a leap of faith with a mind set and attitude of, “You’ll never know unless you Try”
Lito was an inspiration to many and genuinely cared for others, He truly had a Genuine Heart of Gold.
He was a Humble man, Great Son, Loving Husband, Caring Father and a BFF of a Grandfather, aka “AMPA” Always. A Family man who always made sure his family was well taken care of and always encouraged others to work hard, but play harder and enjoy life.
After the passing of his wife Minda in 2009, He pursued their dream to build their townhouse in Las Pinas, Philippines, where he would visit 2 times a year.
Upon Lito's recent return home from the Philippines,
Lito was called by GOD and passed peacefully from this life, the morning of March 17 after a gradual decline in his health. He was surrounded and supported by his loving children, siblings and family during the last days of his life.
A special Thank you to Our Tita Elvie Bayan, for her genuine care over our dad during the last 8 years and being a wonderful companion to our Father, for that we are truly grateful
Lito is survived by his three children (and spouses): Melanie Lindsay (Madric), Milicent Ramos (Michael), and Maynard de la Cruz, His grandchildren: Ariana Roxas (Adam), Jasmine Lindsay, Aaron Jayce, Savannah Camille, Andrew Jayden, Andrew Leo, Brycen Anthony and Drake Alexander. (w/expected GreatGrandchild to arrive in just a few months)
May your fond memories allow your hearts to Celebrate the Life he lived. May they remain with you Always.
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