Jose (Joe) A. de la Garza

Jose "Joe" de la Garza, a devoted family man, decorated veteran, and skilled craftsman, passed away peacefully in his hometown of San Antonio, TX, on June 30, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on May 31, 1946, to Felipe and Hortencia de la Garza, Joe was a true San Antonian through and through.

Joe honorably served his country as an Army veteran, including a tour in the Vietnam War. After his military service, he dedicated 39 years to a distinguished Civil Service career at Kelly Air Force Base. Known as a brilliant machinist and the quintessential handyman, Joe's ability to repair anything mechanical earned him the affectionate title of "Handyman to all."

Joe's love story with his late, beloved wife, Edna Margaret "Nina" de la Garza, spanned 53 years. They loved to host parties and travel, and they collected friends wherever they went. Joe and Nina famously taught country western dance classes for many years. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Steve, Jonathan, and Beth. Joe and Nina especially doted on their five grandchildren Adam Jennings de la Garza, Madison Grae Lopez, Alec Andres de la Garza, Reid Charles Lockwood, Pierce Harold Lockwood and two great grandchildren, Tripp de la Garza and Stella Grae Lopez.

A man with a passion for old cars, Joe was often called the kingpin of the annual pilgrimage to the Pate swap meet in Fort Worth. His latest project was restoring a 1954 Chevy pickup—a testament to his love for bringing classic vehicles back to life. Joe also embraced the latest in technology, mastering social platforms like Instagram, where he shared his life's joys and projects with friends and family.

Those who knew Joe would describe him as loving, generous, and exceptionally handy. His unwavering generosity and ability to love without bounds touched the lives of many. Joe's practical skills were only matched by his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Joe was everyone’s first call.

Joe's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felipe and Hortencia de la Garza, and his wife, Nina. He is survived by his children, Steve de la Garza (April), Jonathan de la Garza, and Beth Lockwood (Zach); his cherished siblings, Felipe T. de la Garza, Alicia Yolanda Seck, Rose Elida Puype, Maria Christina Witham, Dr. Carlos Arturo de la Garza, and Juan Manuel de la Garza; and a community of friends who will miss his warm spirit and infectious smile.

Joe's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, the bonds of family, and the value of service to one's country and community. His story is not just one of personal achievements, but also of the countless lives he enriched through his kindness and expertise. We celebrate Joe's life and the indelible mark he left on the world. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

As we bid farewell to Jose "Joe" de la Garza, we reflect on the joy he brought into our lives and the lessons he imparted through his actions. May his soul rest in eternal peace and may his legacy of love and service continue to inspire us all.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East 78232. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the family will share some remembrances.

MEMORIAL MASSMONDAY, JULY 15, 20249:30 A.M.OUR LADY OF GRACE CATHOLIC CHURCH223 E. SUMMIT AVENUE 78212

Fr. Martin J. Leopold will officiate. Following the mass, there will be a procession to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery for his interment with military honors beginning at 11:15 a.m. Honorary Pallbearers will be his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s name to Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 223 E. Summit Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78212