Dela Cruz family thanks CNMI

The family of the late Rep. Francisco S. Dela Cruz (R-Saipan) are thankful for the love, prayers, and support shown by the entire community to them and the former House vice speaker.

Divana M. Dela Cruz, the eldest of four children of the late legislator and wife Lisa, said that they were not prepared for the sudden passing of their father.

“The Lord never prepared us for the heartache like this and the pain I see in our mom’s eyes, but we do want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers. Although he was taken so soon, the life that he did live has left an impression to so many,” said Divana.

“It’s evident the impact that my dad had on our community from all the beautiful messages through text and social media, and that’s all one could ever hope for. Please know that we’ve been reading them and that our family is forever grateful.”

She added, “We again thank our family and friends on Saipan and Tinian, to all the people overseas who have said prayers for him, Gov. Ralph DLG Torres and family, and all the colleagues of our father, my Judiciary family, and the departments of Public Safety, and Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Thank you all for what you have done and continue to do.”

Divana said her father’s funeral is on Jan. 19 with the burial rites to be held at the Mt. Carmel Cathedral. “It will be a state funeral with a memorial hosted by the Legislative Bureau. The date is to be determined.

The Senate, in yesterday’s session, has also introduced a resolution—Senate Resolution 20-43—honoring the distinguished and honorable life in public service of the six-term legislator from Precinct 3.

Senate President Arnold I. Palacios (R-Saipan) said the resolution, introduced by the committee of the whole, honors the dedication of public service by Dela Cruz to the people of the CNMI.

“We all know congressman Frank. We worked with him. We were shocked upon hearing the news. We want to recognize the contributions he made to the people of the Commonwealth.”

Sen. Jude U. Hofschneider (R-Tinian) said the CNMI was caught off guard and was surprised on the untimely passing of their fellow lawmaker from the House. “We all know congressman Frank is a hardworking public servant in the Legislature.”

“Having served with him in previous Legislatures, me as a member of the Senate and him at the House, we surely are going to miss his presence up here. I just wanted to express my condolences to the family for his untimely passing,” added Hofschneider.

Dela Cruz, 56, died last Sunday while visiting his family and friends on Tinian. His remains were transported back to Saipan last Monday.