Matias Garcia

"Matias Jaime Garcia was born on February 24, 1940, to Rosario Garcia and Remedios Jaime Garcia. One of fourteen children, he learned early the importance of hard work, resilience, and responsibility, values that shaped the man he became. He was surrounded in life by his siblings: Guadalupe, Alfredo, Virginia, Dolores, Mickey, Rita, Carmen, Ralph, Art, Pete, Jenny, Mary, and Martha, with whom he shared deep family roots and lifelong bonds.

Matias completed his education through the eighth grade, leaving school at a young age to work and help support his family. That deep sense of duty stayed with him throughout his life. He spent nearly 50 years as a truck driver and later built his own trucking business, providing through long hours, determination, and perseverance.

On April 29, 1961, Matias married Ruth Garcia. Together they shared over 50 years of marriage, building a life and a home in Baldwin Park, California. Their bond endured through all seasons of life, and they remained close and supportive of one another until the very end, with love always present between them.

Matias was a devoted father to his daughter, Sonia Garcia Ortega, and a father-in-law to her husband, Gilbert Ortega. He was also a proud grandfather to Ladislado and Ariana and was known as a strong, steady presence, someone his family could always depend on for support, guidance, and protection.

In addition to his own child, Matias opened his home and heart to his nephews, taking them in as his own. He raised and mentored them, instilling strong work ethics, discipline, and responsibility, and guiding them with the same care and expectations he held for his family. They lovingly called him “Dad,” and their children knew him as “Grandpa,” a testament to the deep and lasting bond he created across generations.

Matias was also a proud godfather to many godchildren, a role he took seriously. He offered them guidance, encouragement, and quiet support throughout their lives, extending his influence far beyond his immediate family and serving as a trusted mentor and steady figure they could look up to.

In his quieter moments, Matias found joy in listening to Mexican music and watching classic westerns. He will be remembered as a hardworking provider, a man of strength, and someone whose life reflected unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Matias Jaime Garcia leaves behind a legacy of resilience, devotion, and enduring love that will continue through the many lives he touched."