Response from the Family

Ricardo Cruz, Husband of Dean Cruz

On behalf of my family and my wife's family, I would like to thank you for honoring Vina with this memorial service.

We will all miss her in a very painful way. And yet, somehow, there is a sense in which we will not miss her too much, a part of her will always be with us.

She was a very special person—God’s gift to her own family, to our family, and to the UP family, especially her students, fellow faculty and staff at the UP ILIS. She is leaving a priceless legacy.

To her mother, brothers and sisters, she showed uncompromising strength of character. She stood up for what she knew was right, believing that strong relationships could only grow when they are founded on principles. She demonstrated a clear sense of fairness, and she never rested until she was sure everybody in the family got their fair share of blessing or received just treatment.

To our family, Vina was our pillar of compassion. But the term "soft hearted" is hardly appropriate because she actually had a strong heart when it came to caring for people. When we were given the privilege to help raise children besides our own, Vina cared for them as if they were part of the family. Our daughters have grown up to be responsible and independent in their own ways because they were nurtured and guided by their loving mother.

To faculty, staff and her students at the University of the Philippines, especially at the Institute of Library and Information Science, she was the picture of endless passion for teaching and administering the Institute. If she had her way, she would still be holding classes even on her sickbed! You who know her will agree with me that she was fiercely committed to excellence.

We are all richer today because Vina has left this invaluable legacy in our lives. In a sense, though she has gone ahead of us, she hasn’t really left us. She continues to live in our hearts.

Before I close, allow me to thank all of you who have shown us your love through many different acts of kindness. You have given us your time, visiting Vina and encouraging her with emotional support, especially in the past several months. Some have given financial resources, and many times with much sacrifice. Your generosity will never be forgotten.

Most of all, you have prayed for us, and our gracious Heavenly Father has answered your prayers. He has given us comfort and peace, and the assurance of His presence to guide us through life without our dearest Vina beside us.

The Bible declares our God is a loving God, a just God. He gives, and He also takes away. All in His own time. But if God were to give Vina another life to live, I have no doubt she would live it exactly the same way—giving her all, without any thought of receiving in return.