Christian Kevin Diwa Dela Cruz, 32, of Poughkeepsie, died on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at Hudson Valley Hospice House, after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born January 14, 1992 in Lubao, Philippines, he was the son of Romeo Dela Cruz and the late Dina Dela Cruz.

He graduated and received his bachelor's degree in anthropology from Binghamton University, where he was also a member of Amnesty International and Phi Alpha Delta. He continued to live and work in Binghamton, spending time with his friends and sweet pitbull, Buffy. Christian loved cooking, listening to music, and playing video games. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially during Christmas (our family's favorite holiday), and beating us at board games.

After he was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer in July 2022, he made sure to be his own best advocate in treating the disease - researching different treatment options, reaching out and talking to experts, and remaining hopeful throughout his time. His family will always be grateful to him for his stoicism, courage, and will to live, which gave us more time together. In 2023, Christian also captained a team for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's PurpleStride event which aims to end pancreatic cancer. The team, Gaga For a Cure, is named after one of his favorite artists (Lady Gaga) and will continue on in his honor. (More information about Gaga For a Cure, can be found here: http://support.pancan.org/goto/gagaforacure)

Christian is survived by his father, Romeo Dela Cruz, two sisters; Mary Anne Skillins and husband Kyle; Sarah Kay Dela Cruz-Baum and husband Matt; niece and nephew, Cora Skillins and Max Skillins, and a four-legged niece, Charlie Baum who loved him possibly more than any other human. We find comfort in knowing he and our mom are together and at peace.

Calling hours will be from 1pm to 4pm on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Rd., Hyde Park, NY. A service will take place at 3pm at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com

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