Adan de la Cruz III’s Obituary
As the tragic death of Nikki Rowe High School Senior Adan de la Cruz III, 17, still reverberates throughout the community, the idea of including the details of his death last Wednesday, Aug. 21, with the facts that led up to it, Aug. 16 and 17, just didn’t seem fit for publication this week. Neither did it seem right to include what has happened so far to those allegedly partly responsible for his death. This week, we can simply let his family and friends grieve over this terrible loss.
Instead, printed below is the young man’s full obituary, courtesy of the Rivera Funeral Home:
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Adan “Adancito” de la Cruz III, beloved son, brother, uncle, and standout student-athlete, passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 17. Born on December 21, 2006, in McAllen, Texas, Adancito was a shining light in the lives of all who knew him. He departed this world in the same city that he was born, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and courage.
Adancito was the cherished son of Adan de la Cruz Jr. and Maria de Lourdes Garcia (Lourdes). He was the protective and loving brother to Cristian Bryan, Alexandra Nicole, and Victoria Alicia de la Cruz, and the adored brother-in-law to Brayhan Quezada (Alexandra). His niece, Genesis Sophia Quezada, was the apple of his eye, and he took immense joy in being her doting uncle.
From a young age, Adancito's passion for sports was evident. He attended Seguin Elementary and IDEA Tres Lagos for his primary and middle school education, respectively. At the time of his passing, he was a senior at Nikki Rowe High School, where he had made his mark both on and off the field.
Adancito's dedication to football was unmatched. He was a three-year letterman at linebacker for the Nikki Rowe Warriors and was one of the team's top returning senior starters in 2024. His impressive performance on the field earned him a First Team All-District 15-5A DI selection as a junior. With 82 total tackles and five tackles for loss in just 10 games during the 20232024 season, he was not only a key player but also the heart of the defense, serving as Defensive Team Captain in 2023 and slated to continue in that role for the 2024 season. His leadership extended to the 7 v 7 team, where he was a captain and helped lead the team to state-level victories over the past two years.
While football and powerlifting were his main athletic pursuits, Adancito's interests were diverse. He loved the great outdoors, spending time fishing and hunting. Horseback riding was another of his passions, as was spending quality time with his family. His sisters could always count on him for a good-natured tease, and his presence brought joy and laughter to family gatherings.
Those who knew Adancito would describe him as loving, funny, and courageous. He faced life with a smile and never backed down from a challenge. His courage on the field was matched only by his compassion off of it, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.
A quote that Adancito lived by, from the great Vince Lombardi, resonates with his approach to life: 'The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have.'
Adancito truly made the most of his time, his talents, and his relationships, touching the lives of many with his generous spirit and boundless energy.
Adancito's untimely departure leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all of the Nikki Rowe Warrior Nation. Yet, the memories of his infectious laugh, his unwavering determination, and his loving nature will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate Adancito's remarkable life — a life lived fully, with passion and purpose. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made will endure. Adancito de la Cruz III will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Rest in peace, Adancito. You were a beacon of light in this world, and your legacy will shine on forever.
Visitation was held from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. last Saturday, Aug. 24, at Rivera Funeral Home, 1901 Pecan Blvd., McAllen. A Celebration of Life Memorial Mass was held at 12:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, McAllen. Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rivera Funeral Home of McAllen.
RIP.