Renee Lee de la Cruz, 67, resident of Oneida, WI passed away on Thursday, April 15, 2021. She was born October 28th, 1953 to Carol Jean Lopez-Metoxen and Richard Lopez in Chicago, IL. She graduated from college at NAES College with a Degree in Education. She married Humberto de la Cruz on February 14th in Chicago IL. She was an educator in the Chicago Public School System, Seymour, and Pulaski School District for over 25 years. She worked tirelessly with Native American Youth through her numerous positions. Apart from her work as an educator, she was an activist, community advocate, and served as a mentor to countless people. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with family, cooking and hosting dinner parties, Da Bears, books, tv shows, and music (she loved music). She could play the classical bass, accordion, piano, and other instruments. While attending Lakeview High School she was a member of the Chicago Youth Symphony. Renee is survived by her children Jamie (Dustin) de la Cruz, Cary (Jeffrey) Pidgeon, Jarod (Catherine) Pidgeon, Dylan de la Cruz; Grandchildren Kanikisa Corbin, Hodazha-maniwinga Pidgeon, Keela de la Cruz, Zhaida Wilbanks, Ma-shu-ska Pidgeon, Jeffrey Morales, Tierza Morales, Xander Christjohn, Colton Pidgeon, Apollo Christjohn; Greatgrandchildren Kylla Santiago, Tehatuhyatenyu Santiago, and expecting grandchild; Mother Carol Lopez (Metoxen), Siblings Sherry King, Rick Lopez, Carla Lopez, and Karin Lopez. Renee is Preceded in death by her husband Humberto de la Cruz, partner Daniel Pidgeon, her father Richard Lopez, son Quentin and Joey Valez. A special Yaw^ko, gracias, and thank you to all the fire keepers, faithkeepers, numerous friends and companions of Renee near and far, her students, community friends and family, those that she has known and those that have gone on we will remember you. AHO!