Steven Linus Dela Cruz

September 23, 2025 — December 17, 2025

Osawatomie

Steven Linus Dela Cruz, age 78, of Osawatomie, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at his home.

Steve was born September 23, 1947, in Paola, Kansas. He was the eldest of four children born to Albert Thomas and Neives (Vasquez) Dela Cruz. He attended St. Philip Neri Catholic School in Osawatomie.

As a young man, Steve moved to Minnesota, where he lived with his aunt and uncle for several years and worked at the Jewish Community Center. He later returned to Miami County and was employed as a custodian with the Paola School District until his retirement.

In his free time, Steve enjoyed participating in a pool league. While most of his travels were local, he especially enjoyed the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas. Steve was a devoted member of St. Philip Neri Catholic Church and was a Knight of Columbus. He was also a familiar face at the Osawatomie Senior Center, where he went nearly every day to enjoy lunch and visit with friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; his twin sister, Esther Collins; niece Denise Collins and his brother-in-law, Charlie Folsom.

Survivors include his brother, Tom (Sondra) Dela Cruz; his sister, Debbie Folsom; nieces and nephews, Maria, Nick, Luke, Cristal, Richie and Scotty; and nine great-nieces and great-nephews.

Services are pending.

Memorial Contributions are to the Senior Center of Osawatomie.

(Published in the Linn County Journal on December 20, 2025.)