Medardo Dela Cruz was born on April 8, 1959, in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, to Bernardo and Fausta Dela Cruz. At 11 months old, his family immigrated to Hawaii, where he and his two younger siblings, Jeanet and Roy, were raised. Medardo graduated from James Campbell High School and briefly attended the University of Hawaii before transferring to the United States Military Academy at West Point after earning a full-ride scholarship sponsored by a Hawaii State Congresswoman. He graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army.

Medardo served in the 2nd Battalion 59th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) in Germany from 1983 to 1985, where he met his wife, Marietta (Mayet) Acosta Tolete, a Filipina nurse. The couple married and moved back to Hawaii on a compassionate reassignment, welcoming their daughter Michelle and later their son Michael. Medardo continued his military service as Battery Executive Officer and Commander of A/1-62nd ADA in Hawaii and at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, from 1985 to 1993. In 1994, he voluntarily resigned from the Army as a Major and settled in San Antonio, Texas.

Medardo earned an associate’s degree in occupational therapy from St. Philip’s Community College, where he graduated at the top of his class. He worked for 25 years at PAM Health Warm Springs Rehabilitation Center, mentoring students, encouraging patients, and building a family-like atmosphere. Known for his positivity, infectious smile, and leadership, Medardo was affectionately called “D” by his colleagues.

Throughout his life, Medardo held various leadership roles, including Mr. Campbell and Senior Class President in 1977, PTA President, and Founding President of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society’s Alamo Chapter. He was a dedicated mentor, photographer, and cheerleader for his community. Medardo will forever be remembered for his “can-do” attitude, positive spirit, and his ability to bring warmth and joy to everyone around him.