Francisco "Frank" Garza, 71, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 15, 2022, surrounded by his family.
Public viewing will be from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM with a rosary being prayed at 6:00 PM on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Robert Massie Riverside Chapel. Mass will be at 10:00 AM Friday, July 22, 2022, at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church with Father Josh Gray, officiating. Burial will follow in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.
Frank was born on June 3, 1951, in Ozona to Pedro and Irene Garza. He was the second of 3 boys. Growing up, Frank had a great childhood. He was the playfully mischievous one of the three brothers quite often teaming up with his cousins to plan their next stunt. When it was time to fess up to the shenanigans, Frank tried to deflect punishment from his mother, but it never worked. His mom handed him his punishment accordingly. But it was not long before Frank and company were at it again. Growing up in a small community with most of his family living within a block or two away was the genuine joy of being raised in a small town. Frank grew up making many friends, many of them later becoming his "compadres" as they chose him to be the godfather to their children. His easy-going demeanor and quick wit made him a favorite among his friends. Spewing one liners and funny anecdotes, he was always welcome everywhere.
Frank was a true outdoorsman, specially loving to hunt and fish. He also had a great dedication to learning about World War II history as his father had honorably served in the US Army, 24th Division 19th Regiment. He was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys and loved sporting their gear. He also loved sporting a nice cap. He enjoyed watching a good western and getting a good chuckle from watching the Three Stooges.
On August 28, 1978, Frank married Hortencia Silva. Together they raised 4 children. He worked most of his life traveling the United States for oil exploration company, Dawson Geophysical Company. When he was home, he looked forward to spending time with his family. On Sundays, it was a family tradition to go to church and then head over to his parent's home for some nice homemade fried chicken, the fixings, and a Dallas Cowboy game. Frank's legacy will forever be the love and dedication he had to his family. Once the kids were out of high school and off to college, Frank and Hortencia moved to San Angelo to be closer to them. Frank went on to retire from Dawson Geophysical Company in 2019. He spent his retirement fully dedicated to loving and supporting his grandchildren in their sports and school activities. He never missed a game. He was their biggest fan and supporter.
Frank is survived by his devoted wife, Hortencia; 4 children, Gabriel Garza and girlfriend Raven Gowan, Patricia Reyes and husband Guadalupe Jr, Rose Lewis and husband Lane, and Cecilia Shanks and husband Tim; grandchildren, Joe Reyes, Guadalupe Reyes III, Lauren Reyes, Lindley Lewis, Jacob Lewis; great-grandchild, Jordyn Reyes; brothers, Pete Garza Jr. and wife Edwina, Emilio Garza and wife Rita, and loved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncle, cousins and family. Frank is preceded in death by his parents. Frank was truly blessed to have had family and friends who loved him. His great sense of humor will be missed.