Ronald Baylon Dela Cruz

Ronald Baylon Dela Cruz, beloved son, father, and brother, died suddenly after a brief illness on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Ron is survived by his parents, Teddy and Julie Dela Cruz, son Ronald Markus "Marko" Dela Cruz, brother Roberto (Adriane) Dela Cruz, nephews Henry and Jacob Dela Cruz, and partner Katie Wilson. He is predeceased by brother Jose Arturo Dela Cruz. Ron was born on February 27, 1983 in Manilla, Philippines and moved with his family to the United States as an infant. He was raised in Mesquite, Texas and graduated from Poteet High School in Mesquite. Ron attended Abilene Christian University where he met his wife, Heather Bolton Dela Cruz. Ron spent much of his adult life in Southern Indiana, primarily living and working in the town of Bedford, IN. Ron's professional life was dedicated to the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through his work with Stone Belt Arc. Ron's talent and dedication for his work was repeatedly recognized in his 13 years with Stone Belt, where he was Director of Supported Living at the time of his death.

Family and friends were the highlights of Ron's life. He was a tireless and dedicated father to Marko, always up for a game of laser tag or one more trip to the trampoline park. Visiting family in Dallas was a highlight of each year, where Ron enjoyed video games and gentle joshing with his brother, Roberto; in the days before his death, Ron enjoyed sharing these traditions with his nephews Henry and Jacob. Ron remained close to his childhood friends throughout his life and participated in an ongoing Dungeons and Dragons game with the same group of friends for more than 25 years. Ron was selfless in all he did, putting the needs of clients, colleagues, family, and friends above his own. Ron preferred to be the quiet member of a group and stayed away from the spotlight.

A memorial service for Ron will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11am at the Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home at 7405 W Northwest Highway in Dallas. The livestream can be watched at: https://vimeo.com/event/4011097

The family will host a gathering in Ron's memory at the home of Drs. Roberto and Adriane Dela Cruz immediately following the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Ron's memory be made to Stone Belt Arc (www.stonebelt.org).