Teresita M. Dela Cruz

Teresita "Tess" Magrata Dela Cruz

August 7, 1962 - April 28, 2026

Teresita “Tess” Magrata Dela Cruz, age 63, passed away on April 28, 2026, at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and unwavering love touched everyone blessed to know her.

Tess was born in Olongapo City, Philippines. She attended Columban College for high school and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Baguio. Her dedication to her studies and her strong work ethic shaped the purposeful and committed life she would go on to lead.

Tess devoted her life to her family and to creating a home filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. She was a loving wife to her husband, Robert Dela Cruz, with whom she shared a deep bond and a passion for traveling and exploring the world. As a mother, she poured her heart into raising her children, Ronjohn Apolo (Christina), Wendee Apolo (Fiancé: Gene), finding her greatest joy in the moments spent with family. She also embraced her role as a stepmother to Gianna Arbour (Josh), welcoming her with love and care.

Among her favorite pastimes were shopping, cooking, baking, gardening, traveling, family gatherings, and embarking on adventures with Robert by her side. She also devoted her time to managing their business in the Philippines alongside her husband.

Tess is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Dela Cruz; her children, Ronjohn Apolo (Christina) and Wendee Apolo (Fiancé: Gene); her stepdaughter, Gianna Arbour (Josh); and her grandchildren, Shawn William, Prince, and Princess Rebecca. She is also survived by her siblings — Rolando Magrata, Emilita Magrata, Manuel Magrata, Rose Magrata, Jowell Magrata, Dante Magrata, Dennis Magrata, and Allan Magrata — along with her dear sister‑in‑law Mirabella Gonio (Wilson) and many cherished relatives and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

Tess was preceded in death by her parents, Petra and Romualdo Magrata.

Services in the United States

Family and friends are warmly invited to honor and celebrate Tess’s life during two days of visitation, followed by a funeral service, all held at:

Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels

450 W. Lake St., Roselle, IL 60172

Visitation: Friday, May 8, 2026 — 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Visitation: Saturday, May 9, 2026 — 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Funeral Service: Saturday, May 9, 2026 — begins at 7:00 PM

Services in the Philippines

Tess’s remains will be flown home to the Philippines on May 18, 2026, where she will be welcomed with love by family and friends.

A wake will be held May 21–23, 2026, at Olongapo Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home.

Her funeral service and burial will take place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the same location, where she will be laid to rest.