Herman Joseph de la Cruz

Born in Philadelphia PA, Joe graced this world for 98 years of life, where he made his mark throughout many, many generations. His adult impact and stamp in this world began with his military service, as Sergeant First Class for the United States Air Force during World War II. His life as an educator began in Puerto Rico, where he was President of Caribe Grolier facilitating encyclopedic education in homes and schools throughout the Caribbean and Latin America for over 30 years. Life then brought him to Dallas, where his next project turned into the humanitarian and philanthropic side. For over 25 years he built relationships and continued to change lives with his vigorous involvement with Dallas CASA, Salvation Army, Small Business Administration, North Dallas Shared Ministries, and his beloved and very dear to his heart, Towne North YMCA. Joe was known for his friendship, compassion, loyalty and of course, his humor. He loved his family, his friends, tennis, cigars, music, and the St Louis Cardinals. He was true to his faith and always made anyone around him feel loved and respected. We will miss his voice, his laughter and his humor, but know he is at peace and will continue to be in our hearts. "Papa /Grandpa" is survived by his wife Gladys de la Cruz, sons Joseph A. de la Cruz, Anthony J de la Cruz, his daughter in-laws Susan (Chambers) de la Cruz, Amy (Cutlip) de la Cruz, grandchildren Nathanael de la Cruz, Nicholas J. de la Cruz, Jonathan de la Cruz, and his brother Antonio L. de la Cruz.

A visitation for Joe will be held Tuesday, March 14, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Calvary Hill Funeral Home, 3235 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, Texas 75220. A Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St Monica Catholic Church, 9933 Midway Rd, Dallas, Texas 75220. An interment will be at Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, Texas 75211.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.calvaryhilldallas.com for the De La Cruz family.