February 19, 2019.
He was born in Dallas, Texas on July 2, 1937 to Juan and Angela L. Garnica. Mario was raised in Dallas, and being the youngest child in his family he enjoyed his childhood. He loved to learn. An avid reader, he won scholastic awards in grade school. He played golf and was also an excellent bowler. He discovered his passion early on, which was the ability to recognize the detailed beauty in all forms of art. It wasn't long before he began working alongside his father in the ornamental plaster business. A professional artist, sculptor, architectural decorator and plaster craftsman he owned his business, Mario's World of Art in Dallas and Houston for over 40 years. He later established Architectural Decorative Service Company.
With years of dedication and perseverance he mastered his craft. You can find his work on some of Dallas' most iconic landmarks such as the Old Red Courthouse, the Wilson Building, and the
Majestic Theater. One of his most praised projects was the restoration of the eagle atop of the Tower Building in Fair Park.
Mario also traveled the world. He spent time in Europe, Japan and Central America. However, his
most beloved city is in the United States. New Orleans was his most beloved city due to it being enchanted with its history, culture, art and cuisine.
As a patron of the arts, he appreciated opera, classical music, poetry, musicals and foreign films.
James Bond films were also a guilty pleasure. Mario was a brilliant cook and quite the epicurean with a penchant for Cajun, Chinese and Mediterranean foods. If you timed it right, you might catch him planning a meal to coincide with one of his favorite pastimes such as viewing an ice hockey game, World Cup soccer, wrestling or even the Three Stooges.
Humble and unassuming, he enjoyed solitude and relaxing with his dogs. A devoted and loving
father and grandfather, he was a great conversationalist with a wonderful sense of humor and
could have you laughing in no time. He would subtly nudge you in the right direction, but
would ultimately leave you to make your own decision. He instilled in his family the ability to
change perspectives, think for yourself and to look for the best qualities in others. He
built his family on a solid foundation of gratitude and love.
He is survived by his children, Grace Garnica and her husband Bill, Hilda Garnica, John Glenn Garnica and his wife Amy, Raquel Garnica Johnson and her husband Roy and four grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Refugio Jara, Rudolpho Jara, Beatrice Saldana,
Richard Garnica, Guillermo Garnica and son-in-law Lawrence I. Lipman (Hilda)
