Robert Garcia

Robert Garcia was born May 9, 1956 in Harlingen, Texas. He passed away in his home January 15, 2025 in Rockford, Illinois. He is survived by his daughter, Mandi Garcia; his grandchildren, Skye Gia, Christian and Brooklyn; two sisters & seven brothers. He was preceded in death by his son, David Teter who was born January 28, 1992 and passed away April 17, 2016; his parents; Elvira & Viviano Garcia; one sister & four brothers.

Robert was a loving father, grandfather, and just an all around cool guy. His daughter would describe him as having many layers beneath his stoic nature.His love language was expressed through gifting his artwork, playing music for you on his guitar, or buying you a cold beer. His choice would be anything German, Mexican, or a tall smooth Guinness. Robert was a die hard Green Bay Packer & Chicago Cubs fan. Very knowledgeable, he could "talk sports" for hours. And seeing the Cubs win the World Series in 2016 was an absolute dream come true for him. Robert also enjoyed Folklore. Bigfoot sighting tales in particular. He would spend some evenings listening to them on AM radio. He loved sharing the stories with Mandi as much as she loved listening to them.

Robert was blessed with amazing talents. Bringing things to life through his fingertips. Whether it be with a paintbrush, woodworking, or through the strings of his electric guitar. But music, oh music was Robert's greatest love. Before anything else, Robert was a musician. A grand one at that. (this talent skipped his daughter (lol) but blessed his son, David)

Robert could read it, write it, and of course, play it. His relationship with music was harmonious and seemingly effortless. His vast arsenal of techniques brought awareness to his deep understanding of instrument & sound. To witness this enchantment was incredible.

A larger part of Robert's early life started in 1979 when he stumbled into a tiny shop called "Toad Hall BookStore" About a year later the renowned "Toad Hall Books & Record Store" was birthed, where Robert would be employed for almost 2 decades. The founders and then owners; Bev & Larry Mason, became lifelong friends of Robert's. Their belief in him & unwavering support, became a catalyst for his surge of success through creativity. For decades, Robert's artwork decorated the building from the inside out. To this day if you're lucky, you might find a piece signed, "Robert Garcia"... and if you knew him personally, you may feel his remnants that still linger...

From the early 90's on, locals remember seeing Robert riding his bike, working downtown @ State & Madison Pool Hall, the Coronado and the Metro Center. He later retired from doing maintenance at the Greg Tuite & Associates building. Robert liked to stay busy. He was the lead guitarist in a well known local band called "Higher Ground." In 96' the band earned recognition and won a RAMI award (Rockford Area Music Industry). He was also a member of the Crossroads Blues Society. Robert was active in charitable contributions. Donating artwork for raffles at local charities, monetary donations to St. Judes children's hospital for the last 5 years, and during the winters when he was still working, he would purchase warm underclothing & accessories for the homeless & pass them out personally.

Robert understood the true meaning of life, the quality and what gives it value. If he had it, you wouldn't go without it.

***simple pleasures of Robert's that Mandi recalls***

Concerts concerts concerts. Coffee. Pancakes. Dining out (breakfast in particular) Burgers. Bike riding. Having a beer. Playing the jukebox. Andy Griffith. Giving. Friends. His children. His grandchildren. His precious Uncle Bea. Engaging. Meaningful conversations. My dad thrived off of deep conversations (he passed that one down to me:)

A memorial to celebrate Robert's life will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 11AM - 2PM @ the White Eagle Club 235 15th Ave. Rockford, IL 61104