Freddie Garcia Jr.

Chick was the eldest son of Marina Quesada Garcia and Freddie Garcia. He was born in Ybor City.

After graduating from Jefferson High School, he went on to become part of the first graduating class at the University of South Florida (USF), earning a degree in Physics. He later received a Master’s Degree in Quantum Physics. Chick joined the Air Force in 1963, where he met his future wife, Renee. They married in 1967. He was a decorated hero who flew numerous combat missions in Vietnam. He also served as a professor at the Royal Air Force College of Air Warfare in Manby, England, and at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

After retiring from the military, Chick founded a high-technology company, Quantum Technology Sciences, Inc. (QTSI), and remained a successful entrepreneur throughout his life. He was an avid golfer and, together with Renee, his beloved wife of 58 years, raised a beautiful family. Chick made friends wherever he went. He had a remarkable heart for helping and mentoring people from all walks of life and maintained a boundless curiosity about the world around him. Known affectionately as the “Mayor of Tampa” by close friends, he held weekly lunch gatherings with his high school buddies. He was widely respected in Tampa’s golf and business circles for his sharp intellect and great sense of humor. His zest for life and kind heart left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed.

Chick is survived by his wife, Renee; his daughters, Nicole and Yvette. His brother Michael Garcia, sister in law Diana and nephew Ryan; three grandchildren, Summer, Savannah, and Darren; and three great-grandchildren, all of whom were the apple of his eye.

A Memorial Service for Freddie will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 2:00pm in St Mary's Episcopal Church, 4311 W San Miguel St, Tampa, FL 33629.