Raul Garcia Sr.

Our beloved, Raul Garcia, Sr. of Modesto passed on peacefully December 12, 2011 from our arms and into the arms of God. Born in Joliet, Montana, Raul was the eldest of four children. His family settled in the central valley where Raul eventually met and fell in love with his neighbor, Catalina ne'e Neri. They eloped on Christmas Eve, 1941 and made Modesto their home. Like a fairytale, they would be lifetime loves. They were just 12 days shy of celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary.

Raul was proud to have served his country as a squad leader in WWII in the U.S. Army with "I" Company, 84th Infantry Division where he fought "The Battle of the Bulge." He was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantry Badge as well as countless additional conduct and recognition awards.

Some of his hobbies included: the daily crosswords, fishing, bowling, R.V. traveling and - things as simple as - tinkering around the house. He always looked forward to traveling and attending the annual 84th Infantry Div. reunion at various venues across the nation where he and Catalina were able to attend 62 times. He was also a passionate diehard SF Giants fan.

To all that were fortunate enough to know him, he was known as the proverbial, "Jack of all trades."

Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and Friend...you will forever be missed and always in our hearts. "YOU'RE IT!"

He is survived by his wife Catalina/Katie Garcia; brother, Reynaldo (Marge) Garcia of Jamestown; sisters, Amelia Garcia of Modesto and Ida Nunez of Roseville; sons, Raul (Sookie) Garcia, Jr. of Modesto, Raymond (Irene) Garcia of Madera, David Garcia of Modesto; daughters, Theresa Garcia of Modesto and Ruth (Ed) Ross of Ceres; grandchildren; Michael Garcia, Raquel Garcia, Leta (Scott) Fusi, Edward Ross, Maria (Adam) Baltzer and Lena Garcia; great grandchildren, Maci Fusi, Blaine Fusi and Brianna Baltzer; And countless nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Eligio Garcia, Rufugio Garcia; sisters, Dora Martinez and Stella Garcia; granddaughters Rebecca Cody Garcia.

A viewing will be held Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 5-9 p.m. and Rosary at 7 p.m. A graveside service will follow the day after: Thursday, December 22, 2011 at 10 a.m. All services will be performed and held at Lakewood Memorial Park and Funeral Home.