Romeo V. dela Cruz

Romeo Vergara dela Cruz passed away peacefully on July 12, 2016 at his Rancho Bernardo home in San Diego, California surrounded by family whom he loved. He was the husband of Filomena Bal dela Cruz and the father of Tracy dela Cruz and Edmond dela Cruz. Romy and Mina shared 47 years of marriage; they were married in Edmonton, Alberta on June 28, 1969. Romy is remembered for his kindness, his devotion to family, his love of dancing and singing karaoke with family and friends, and playing hymns on the piano. Romy was born on November 20, 1944 in the town of Villa Verde in the province Nueva Vizcaya of the Philippines. He was the son of Ambrosio dela Cruz and Benita Vergara dela Cruz. He graduated from Dalton High School in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya in March 1961 and went on to attend the prestigious University of the Philippines from 1961-1965. He majored in Education and was training to become a teacher. To the surprise of his family, Romy decided to join the United States Navy and enlisted in March 1965. He worked his way up the enlisted ranks and eventually became a commissioned officer in March 1980. He ultimately attained the rank of LTJG. During his naval career, he was awarded four Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, the Navy Expeditionary Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He proudly served his second home country, the United States of America, for 20 years and retired from the Navy in May 1985. While still on active duty in the Navy, Romy enrolled at National University in 1984 and took courses at night. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in October 1986. In January 1987, he began his civil service career working for the Department of Defense. Romy worked as an auditor, controller, and analyst and received several awards commending his outstanding contributions. In March 2008, Romy retired after 21 years of faithful service to the United States Government. After many years of hard work, he spent his retirement years relaxing at home and working on house projects and gardening. He always enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially at parties. He also played golf and enjoyed watching sports and cheering on the Chargers and Padres. Romy is survived by his wife Filomena, his daughter Tracy, and predeceased by his son Edmond. He is also survived by his sisters Clarita Padua, Pacita De Vera, Norma Peralta, and predeceased by his brother Rodolfo dela Cruz and sisters Esmenia Farinas, Juliet dela Cruz and Remedios Papa. Services will take place at El Camino Memorial Park (5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121). The viewing will be held on Friday, July 29 from 4-8 pm. The memorial service begins at 10 am on Saturday, July 30. Following the memorial and burial services, a reception will be held at Savory Buffet (7040 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92121).