Eugene F. Garcia was born on April 16, 1932, to Eugenio Garcia and Ester Enriquez Garcia. He served in the United State Air Force and was a Korean War Veteran. He obtained an associate degree and began his career as an Auto-Mechanic and went on to become a Machinist and ended his career as a Technician Inspector.
He met the love of his life, Wauneta N. Ray Garcia at March Airforce base while both were serving their country. They were married on July 30, 1955. Together for over 65 years, they have 8 children (6 surviving), 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Gene (as he was known to many) was devoted to his family. With the decisions he made throughout his life, his family always came first. He enjoyed fishing, auto-repair, Westerns and had a love of music and dancing. He was a kind and very compassionate person who welcomed the opportunity to get to know all who crossed his path. He was open to any form of conversation, was quite intelligent and witty, and could easily hold your attention. He also would remember all he met by name. This was no small feat as he was loved and respected by many. A devout Catholic, his membership as Knights of Columbus was of great importance to him. He dedicated his time with the Knights as a recruiter. He was also a member of the VFW and reached high ranks with both organizations. His brother Knights and his Mission San Luis Rey Parish family hold him dear in their hearts. His children hold him in everlasting love and hope to keep his legacy alive within themselves.
Eugene is survived by his six children Mark (Shari) Garcia, Karen (Mark) Garcia Wilde, Kathleen Warren, Debra (Edwin) Garcia, James Garcia, Jeffrey (Luz) Garcia, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Eugene is preceded in death by his wife Wauneta and sons Jack and John Garcia.
Visitation will be held at Eternal Hills, Monday, March 18, 2024, 4:00 to 8:00 PM.
Funeral Mass will be held at San Luis Rey Mission Chapel, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 10:00 AM.
The Burial will be held thereafter, 11:30 AM, at Eternal Hills, with a 1:00 PM Reception held at San Luis Rey Mission Knights of Columbus Hall.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be offered to Korean War Veterans Memorial, Misson San Luis Rey Knights of Columbus, or St. Joseph’s Indian School.
