Paquito R. Dela Cruz of Mississauga, Ontario, passed away on June 25, 2025 due to old age and related to a cardiac event. His soul is surrounded by family and loved ones on his journey. 

Born on August 26, 1933 in Tarlac, Philippines, Paquito was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He touched the lives of many with his sense of humour, kindness, mindfulness and patience. 

Paquito had an exceptional career using his gift of creativity and leadership as a chef for Filipino Presidential families. He built trust with influential people and thus created a foundational wave of success that would pass onto his children and grandchildren. His legacy has left a significant impact that speaks of strength, resilience, grit and tenacity. 

Paquito’s personal mission was to create a sustainable and stable life for those he loved, his family. He fulfilled his mission and is continued by those that benefited from his hard work. 

Paquito is survived by his wife, Mercedes Dela Cruz, his children, Rodolfo Dela Cruz, Jeany Lumactod, Nancy Capili and Jimmy Dela Cruz, his grandchildren, Mykah Czarina Dela Cruz, Gerardo Antonio Capili, Jinno Christian Lumactod, Vanessa Tricia Lumactod, Jesus Emmanuel Capili, Vincent Emmanuel Lumactod, Maria Carmela Capili, Jose Enrico Dela Cruz and Julianna Dela Cruz, his great - grandchild Mireya Azuli Paz-Dela Cruz.

He was predeceased by his mother, Simona Del Rosario, his father, Emilio Dela Cruz, his brothers and his sisters. 

A gathering to honour and celebrate Paquito will be this Sunday, June 29 for 2PM to 4PM. Further details can be found on his memorial website. We invite family and friends to join us in remembering and celebrating his life by posting fond memories or photos on his memorial website. 

We ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this time.