Michael Daniel Garcia

Michael D. Garcia Sr., passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023. He was surrounded by family and prayer as he was called Home.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Linda Garcia; parents Daniel and Delia Garcia; parent-in-laws Edward and Mary Lovato; sister-in-law Helen Lovato; and brother-in-law Charles Pacheco.

He is survived by his children, Andrea Solin of Albuquerque, Patty Garcia of Rio Lucio, Michael “Danny” Garcia Jr. (Victoria) of Albuquerque, and Matthew Garcia of Rio Lucio.  Grandchildren, Alexandra and Jacob Solin, Maria Tafoya, Everly, Felicity, and Michael “Daniel” Garcia III. Siblings, Lawrence Garcia (Fajee), Andrew Garcia (Lorrie), Marian Garcia-Fastwolf (Frank), Bernadette Pacheco (Chris), Peter Garcia (Janet), Geraldine Martinez (Joe). He also had many nieces, nephews and extended family who he also loved.

Michael graduated from the University of New Mexico with his bachelor's degree and then New Mexico Highlands University with his master’s degree in education. He went on to ultimately serve many years in the Peñasco Community as a Teacher, Counselor, and eventually Superintendent prior to his retirement in 1998. He had many students and employees who appreciated his contributions to their education and often thanked him for his role in their lives. He was a beloved husband and missed his wife Linda after her passing in 2019. Michael and Linda were married for almost 50 years, and they had four children and six grandchildren. Even throughout Michael’s years of health issues, he always looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren and sharing his love for snacks like popcorn and ice cream. After retirement, Michael spent countless hours at the Garcia’s store in Rio Lucio, working and visiting with his community. He was always one to joke, even in the most serious of situations. In his last days, he never failed to try and make light of things. He enjoyed talking about the stock market and looked forward to seeing the daily changes on Wall Street. Michael will be missed by those who loved him.

The family would like to thank Linda Lopez for the friendship and care she provided Michael during his last few years of life. Also, the family and friends who visited him, especially in his last days. 

Pallbearers are:

Lawrence Garcia, Andrew Garcia, Peter Garcia, Jacob Solin, John Lovato, and Dominic Garcia

Honorary Pallbearers are:

Alexandra Solin, Maria Tafoya, Everly, Felicity, and Michael “Daniel” Garcia III

A public visitation will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. at the San Antonio De Padua Catholic church in Peñasco, NM followed by the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. Funeral mass to be held at the San Antonio De Padua Catholic church in Peñasco on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Burial to follow at Rio Lucio Cemetery.

The family of Michael Daniel Garcia has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory. www.devargasfuneral.com. 505-747-7477.