Guadalupe (Lupe) Garcia Jr. "El Ganzo", 80 years young, from San Antonio, TX passed away on November 18, 2020 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Lupe was born September 20, 1940, in Eagle Pass, TX to Guadalupe Garcia, Sr and Catalina Becerra Trejo.

Lupe married Maria Roman on May 30, 1959 in Cotulla, TX. Lupe and Maria started their lives together as migrant workers. Lupe also worked at a plant nursery, road construction and retired as a truck driver. He was a romantic at heart with his wife of 62 years and forever brought her home flowers on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries and for Valentines Day. At each established home residence, he made sure to plant a rose garden for her to enjoy.

Lupe is survived by 6 children, 16 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren:

• Maria Marta Mangrum and Allen, of Milton, WA

• Jesse & April Mangrum, Sarah & Mario Gutierrez, Courtney Mangrum, Kaleb Mangrum

• Neli Garcia and Kyle Hollis, of Houston, TX

• Albert Garcia, Andres Garcia, Jace Garcia

• Oscar Garcia & Viviane of Springfield, OR

• Eric Garcia, Alex Garcia

• Dahlia (Dolly) Rigsby and Mike, of Helotes, TX

• Justin Cruz, Mikayla Rigsby

• Nancy Gonzales of San Antonio, TX

• Mia Gonzales, Abram Gonzales

• Debbie Ramon and Juan, of San Antonio, TX

• Katia Ramon, Nathan Ramon, Emilia Ramon

Lupe had a grade school education which did not hold him back from learning and teaching himself over the years. His children have many fond memories of their father as an avid fisherman. Lupe's fishing gear collection was huge and some of the best gear available that he bought at sports stores or flea markets.

Lupe was a man who could fix anything from bikes, lawnmowers, cars and pretty much anything with a motor. He could do anything in the home with electricity, plumbing and all general construction. Outside the home he operated heavy equipment in most of his jobs. He taught himself English for the names of thousands of plants that helped his work at the nursery. At home, his green thumb could make anything grow and his flower garden or vegetable garden was always full.

He loved household pets; dogs and cats were always welcomed. He was an excellent cook and was proud of his family barbecues. Most family members say that Lupe's borracho beans were the very best anyone ever ate. He loved to sing and enjoyed the "bailes" at social gatherings and holidays. Lupe was one of the best dancers on the dance floor.

Favorite memories from his children included his love of swimming. He enjoyed Balmorhea State Park. The picture of him wearing cowboy boots with his swimming trunks taught his daughter, Marta, to live life by her own rules, just as he did. He was a proud man that had fun with his family.

Lupe was proud of all his children. Neli said he had a look that he would give and you knew it was pride, with a wink and nod of his head. Neli opened a fashion boutique and he was excited to attend the grand opening. He was the first one to acknowledge how proud he was of her success.

Lupe enjoyed being outdoors as much as possible which his son fondly remembers. Oscar inherited the gardening green thumb and is proud to share his own flowers and gardens with everyone, sending a daily photo of a flower to his mom.

Dahlia recognizes her father as the one that paved the way for other men to support their wives. He was one of the first to reverse traditional roles and stay home with the kids while his wife worked outside the home. He kept the kids focused on homework, a field trip to O'Hare International Airport to watch the planes take-off and land, and on no-school snow days, they enjoyed sledding and hot chocolate.

Favorite memories for Nancy include dad being in the yard working with plants and planting trees. He taught each of his girls to be self-reliant, independent and do-it-yourselfers and still remain ladies, who dress up, do their nails and makeup.

Debbie said she has many childhood memories of her dad. Her most cherished memories of him living on the same property, enjoying everyday with her children, spring planting together. He will always be remembered  everywhere she looks by all the trees he planted on the property.

Lupe is also survived by two brothers, Jose T. Garcia and spouse, Lupita of Cotulla, Tx and Alejandro T. Garcia and spouse, Melba. He has beloved in-laws and multiple nephews and nieces.

The family of Guadalupe Garcia Jr. appreciates all the support and condolences from extended family and friends. Please understand due to COVID-19, the service will be limited to a private family gathering.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations "In Memory of Lupe Garcia Jr. (El Ganzo)"  to the following:

UH Foundation - Adult Health - TX Diabetes Institute Fund

https://www.universityhealthsystem.com/suppo.../ways-to-give (Credit Card or PayPal)

or

Guadalupanas Society - Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Cotulla, TX 78014 (Check or Money Order)