Donato De La Cruz

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Donato Delacruz of Oxnard went to his heavenly father on January 31, 2024, at the age of 74, after a short battle with cancer and congestive heart failure. He was born on September 7, 1949, in Ventura ca to Rufino and Theresa Delacruz. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Aron, his granddaughter Amanda, and his brother Refugio (Coonie).

After graduating Oxnard high school in 1968, he was drafted by the United States Army where he volunteered for infantry duty and served in the 199th brigade in Fort Ord. In 1970, after being injured in combat he was awarded a Purple Heart and sent home to R&R (rest and relaxation). While on leave, he married his longtime love, Christal. A year later they welcomed their first son, Joseph. Later, he was assigned to Fort Lewis Washington where he was promoted to E-6, Staff Sergeant, then he was sent to Monterey Bay. In 1976, they welcomed their second son, Don "Aron." Once discharged from the service, he began employment at Arcturus Manufacturing in Oxnard, where he retired after 41 years.

As an avid camper, surfer, and beach goer, he could always be seen striking up a conversation with anyone he met. His favorite hangout was the jetty at La Jenelle where he enjoyed fishing and spending time with family. One of his favorite boating spots was Lake Buena Vista where he always had a huge smile while behind the wheel of his boat. His favorite camping spots were Hobson, Jalama, and Farria Beach at Rincon. Family was a top priority for him, and he was always up for a backyard barbecue. In his later years he loved going to the Rudder Room in his motorhome to relax and enjoy the harbor. He was kindhearted, giving and selfless, always eager to help others and would give the shirt off his back to those in need. To know him was to love him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Christal, son, Joe (Kristen) and grandbabies; Emily, Cole, Mackenzie, little Joe, Ryder and Paige Delacruz, his 7 siblings, Robert (Kaye), Amelia (Ralph), Peter (Doreen), Yolanda (Saul), Henry (Susan), Nancy (Bob) and Rico, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Reardon Funeral Home in Oxnard at 2pm with reception immediately following at the Church of Latter Day Saints 1150 Gary Dr., Oxnard.

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