Joe was born in Welda on Sept. 1, 1942, the son of Miguel and Senaida Garcia. After graduating from Ottawa High School in 1960 he enlisted in the United States Air Force. After serving his country he met and married the love of his life, Gloria Bonilla. They were married on July 24, 1965 in Chanute.
He retired from the Santa Fe railroad where he worked as a switchman and brakeman. After he retired from the railroad he worked for Hi-Lo Campers and was as a crossing guard for Chanute schools. Joe was the boxing coach for the Chanute Boxing Club, an avid reader of westerns, volunteer for Meals on Wheels, and enjoyed fishing and woodworking. He loved spending time with family, especially taking his family on the yearly summer vacation.
Joe is survived by his wife, Gloria. of the home; two children, Melissa Garcia Thurman of Chanute, and Joe R. Garcia, Jr. of Chanute; two grandchildren, Michael Thurman and wife, Angie, of Kerrville, Texas, and Ashley Garcia Thurman of Chanute; two great-grandchildren, Tiana Balestere and Ty Nicholas Thurman, both of Kerrville, Texas; six brothers, Mike Garcia, Jr. of Lawrence, Jessie Garcia of Ottawa, Hildo Garcia of Ottawa, Jimmy Garcia of Ottawa, Frank Garcia of Baldwin City and Daniel Garcia of Ottawa; and two sisters, Senaida Larios of Ottawa, and Billie DeLaTorre of Ottawa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his loyal companion, Sammy, his Black Lab.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the St. Patrick Cemetery.
Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. on Monday at the church.
The family will receive friends on Monday from 6 until 8 p.m. in the Parish Hall at St. Patrick Catholic Church.
Memorials in his name may be made to St. Patrick Catholic School and left with the funeral home.
Penwell-Gabel Gibson Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelChanute.com
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