Michael Lee Keplinger - Garza

Michael Lee Keplinger-Garza, lovingly known as Mike, passed away on October 11, 2025, tragically in a car accident at the age of 34, while coming home to his family after a long shift he worked to provide for the ones he loved most.

He was a devoted Husband, loving Father, a Son, Brother, the Best Tio, and loyal friend. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, Mike spent his childhood in Fort Wayne, Indiana, before returning home to Corpus Christi, where his life truly blossomed. It was there that he met the love of his life, Vanessa Garza, and together they built a beautiful family with their 3 daughters- Kaylee Jazmyn, Kyleigh Renee and Karli Marie Garza- the pride and joy of his heart. Mike was a hardworking and dedicated pipe inspector who took great pride in his craft. He found deep satisfaction in a job well done and even greater pride in his personal dream- his beloved 3K Ranch. He poured his heart into his work, his land, and his family, always striving to give his best in everything he did. Those who knew Mike will remember him for this Heart of Gold, and his easy-going nature. He was the light of any room-always joking, laughing, and bringing joy wherever he went. He loved his family deeply, enjoyed fishing, riding and caring for his horses, and never turned down a good steak cooked medium-well. Whether he was out on the road with this music and smokes, or spending time with loved ones, Mike lived life with an honest, genuine spirit that touched everyone around him. No matter how long the day, he always found time to lend a hand, share a laugh, or help someone in need. Mike’s memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the love he shared, and the legacy he built with his family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his maternal great grandma Lou Keplinger, paternal great grandparents Chris and Pauline Rosa; maternal grandparents Bob and Shirley Keplinger, paternal grandmother Esther Rosa; aunts Karen, Kay, and Roxanne; uncle Adam R. Garza Jr; and father in law Edward Garza Jr.

Mike leaves behind his wife Vanessa Garza; his daughters Kaylee Jazmyn Garza, Kyleigh Renee Garza, and Karli Marie Garza. Mother Diane Marie Keplinger; father Michael Anthony Garza (Betty); sisters Danielle Gray (Johnathon), Jaz Lyn Miller (Austin), brothers Manuel Monte Longo (Esther Rodriguez), Jacob Acosta (Vanessa), Destin Gage Garza, and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He will be dearly missed.

A visitation for Michael will be held Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78415 with rosary from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral mass will occur Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, 3502 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78415. A committal will occur Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Seaside Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 4357 Ocean Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412.