Enrique (Kique) De La Cruz
August 13, 1931 – September 3, 2025

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

2 Timothy 4:7

Loving husband to Mary. Devoted father to Linda, Shirley and DD, Paula, Guy and Diana, Lisa.

Cherished grandfather to Paul and Veronica, Maria and Mercedes, Joshua and Chelsie, Jonathan and Gabby, Adrian and Melanie.

Adoring great-grandfather to Jeremiah, Charlotte, Loki, and Kovu.

Son to Vicente and Esther.

Dear brother to Manuel, Max, Lupe, Rudy, Elosia, Josie, Jr, Mary

Proud uncle and faithful friend to many.

Enrique taught us that family is the most sacred bond. He loved his family fiercely and was always there to lend a hand, giving his all in everything he did. As a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever shape our lives. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, but his love remains eternal. He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed.

Enrique found his calling through ROTC at San Antonio Vocational and Technical High School, joining the United States Air Force after graduating in 1950. Trained as a jet engine mechanic, he later became an instructor, sharing his expertise with others. He served at Clark AFB in the Philippines, Dyess AFB in Texas, Thailand, and Andrews AFB in Maryland. His distinguished 20-year career culminated in his retirement as a Master Sergeant, marked by numerous military honors, including the prestigious Air Force Commendation Medal, awarded for heroic acts of selflessness and bravery in service to others.

In Gratitude

Our sister Shirley, who, after her retirement, became Dad's steadfast caregiver. She took him to doctor's appointments, managed insurance and prescriptions, and ensured he was well-fed and cared for with unwavering dedication.

Crest Palliative Care's hospice team provided exceptional end-of-life care.
Brooke Army Medical Center delivered outstanding medical support.

St. Patrick Catholic Church offered spiritual comfort and community.

Our family, as always providing the love, strength and support to get through.

In lieu of flowers of flowers the family respectfully request donations be made to Wreaths across America (Fort Sam Houston Cemetery).

Being part of a family means being part of something extraordinary—a bond filled with love, a touch of chaos, and an abundance of heart. As anyone who knew Dad can attest, he was always punctual, arriving first and leaving first, a habit rooted in his military precision. If you said 8:00, he was there at 8:00—not a minute later. As a military sergeant to the end, he never hesitated to supervise, sometimes pointing out where we went wrong, always with love.

To his family and friends, Dad was immensely proud of each of you. His heart overflowed with love, and he cherished sharing stories of growing up with his brothers and sisters. His life was a testament to the power of family, a legacy of love that will endure.

Dad, Popo

You are forever in our hearts.

We love you.