Ernesto De La Cruz Jr

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ernesto DeLaCruz Jr. on February 2, 2025, at the age of 74. He was born on June 22, 1950, in Mission, Texas, to Ernesto DeLaCruz Sr. and Francisca Guerra. Ernesto was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his brother Crestin DeLaCruz, and his daughter Thelma DeLaCruz Herron.

Ernesto leaves behind his loving wife of 20 years, Victoria G. DeLaCruz, and his stepchildren, Nicole and Mark Robillard. He is also survived by his children: Ernesto DeLaCruz III, Joe DeLaCruz, and Raul DeLaCruz, as well as 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, who all adored him. Ernesto is further survived by his siblings: Cruz DeLaCruz and his wife Arlene, Jesse DeLaCruz and his wife Maggie, Juanita Molina and her husband Jose, Elva Irwin and her husband Paul, and Mary Alaniz.

Known for his love of life, Ernesto enjoyed simple pleasures, such as a meal of Churches Fried Chicken, baby back ribs, menudo, barbacoa or tacos. His love for music spanned from Tejano to country, with his favorite song being Boracho De Besos by La Fiebre. A dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan, and loved the San Antonio Spurs, he was also fond of his German Shepherds and was never far from his Jack and Coke.

Throughout his life, Ernesto had a passion for travel and entertainment. He loved his visits to Las Vegas, the Coushatta Casino, and family cruises, and he always looked forward to spending time in San Antonio. His greatest joy was family barbecues, where his warmth and laughter filled the air.

Ernesto proudly served as a homeland security officer for 30 years, guarding the IRS, and was a proud graduate of Mission High School in 1970, Durham Business College, and the Travis County Sheriff’s Department program.

He found peace and satisfaction in his quiet country retreat, "Rancho DeLaCruz," where he enjoyed mowing the lawn on his riding lawn mower and caring for the land. Ernesto lived his life with a calm demeanor but was always the heart of any room, beloved for his gentle nature, generosity, and that unforgettable smile.

He will be missed dearly by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A life well-lived, Ernesto’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at Weed-Corley Fish Funeral Home on February 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM.