Arnulfo "Al" Garcia Jr.

Arnulfo “Al” Garcia Jr. died peacefully at home surrounded by family on May 20, 2016 at the age of 84. Arnulfo is survived by his loving wife Viola Garcia; children Ronald Garcia Sr. (Cynthia), Brenda Farias (Robert); grandchildren Ronald Garcia Jr. (Therese), Robert A. Farias, Anthony Farias (Jody), Amanda Garcia; great-grandson Tristan Farias; sister Leticia (Dennis) Armendariz. Arnulfo was born on Dec 14, 1931 in Del Rio, Texas, to Arnulfo F. and Genoveva Garcia. He graduated from Lanier High School class of 1950. He married Viola, his high school sweetheart, in 1954. Arnulfo was drafted into the Army in 1954 where he served our nation in Germany. Upon return from duty in 1956, he and Viola started their family, and also resumed his career at Kelly AFB, retiring as an equipment specialist in 1986. His children will always remember him as a firm but loving father who encouraged them to pursue their goals and especially higher education. Arnulfo was a talented trumpet player, noted for his big, beautiful sound reminiscent of Harry James. While stationed in Germany, he played weekend evenings with a popular local dance band, and upon his return home, lead his own very successful dance band, Al Garcia and his Orchestra, for 30 years. He and Viola enjoyed travelling with friends and family to locations including Washington D.C, Branson, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Europe. He was an ardent sportsman, forming and leading Kelly AFB bowling and softball teams in his early years, following his favorite football teams on TV, and becoming an avid golfer in his retirement years. He was a charismatic individual who loved his wife and family, and who was passionate about encouraging them to keep reaching for the stars Visitation will be held at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home, 6321 Bandera Rd, from 6-9PM on Tuesday, May 24, 2016, with a Prayer Service from 7-8PM. Chapel service will be on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at 10AM at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home, with interment to follow at San Fernando #3 Cemetery, 1735 Cupples Rd, and reception afterwards. The family would like to thank the following for their compassionate care of Arnulfo: VITAS Hospice and especially James Keller, Rev Bob Weston, Elizabeth Medina, Rose Ann Koerber, and Maria de la Luz. Expressions of sympathy can be made at www.sunsetnwfuneralhome.com. Arrangements under the direction of SUNSET NORTHWEST FUNERAL HOME, San Antonio, TX.