"Manny" Magno Antonio De La Cruz, a retired accountant and longtime resident of Carson, California, died peacefully on August 26, 2020 at the age of 82.

Manny is survived by his beautiful wife, Nellie; his sister Marcela Cancio; his brother, Erlando De La Cruz Jr; his children Alison, Tony, and Marcie; his children-in-law Devin, Belay, Maya, Julie and Ellen; his grandchildren Marley, Mary-Jane, Maya, and Isla, beloved dogs: Lucy and Copper and many nieces and nephews.

Manny was born in Manila on June 13, 1938 to Erlando Caber De La Cruz Sr. and Maria Santos Calalang De La Cruz. While attending college, Manny worked at the Philippine Reparations Commission of Japan. He graduated from Far Eastern University with a degree in Accounting and then got his first job at Malacañang Palace working for President Carlos P. Garcia. After receiving his Philippine CPA license, Manny worked as an auditor at Associated Banking Corporation.

Manny immigrated to the United States in 1969 landing in Los Angeles, CA, the country that would be his home for the next 51 years. Manny worked for several companies, including Texaco, National and Citizens' Life Insurance and the M.F. Salta Automobile Corporation.

An avid fan of the English language, Manny strengthened his language skills in the Philippines by accepting the challenge of a mentor to only speak English while they were together. Although he spoke fluent Tagalog until his death, Manny was adamant about speaking English well. He kept and used an English dictionary throughout his life in the U.S. Until shortly before he died, Manny often questioned his wife about word connotations, not just meanings, expanding his vocabulary.

Manny, a Catholic, was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He had an amazing ability to engage people and befriend strangers wherever he went. He would often share respect, enthusiasm, and kindness to fellow parents and fans at school events, basketball leagues or at performances by his children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews. Manny also loved his L.A. Lakers and Dodgers – he lived to watch their games and share highlights with his family.

The De La Cruz family will hold a Life Celebration on Saturday September 5, 2020 at 6 pm via Zoom in Los Angeles, CA for relatives and friends around the world to view.

The De La Cruz family is eternally grateful to Manny's team of dedicated nurses and doctors who cared for him. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the "Feed the Frontliners" Campaign to help his family continue to support all those at the frontlines who continue to provide love, compassion, and service during these unprecedented times. Learn more: www.theparksfinest.com or donate directly: https://www.gofundme.com/f/feed-the-frontliners-project