Willie C. Garcia

He served in the United States Army 1942-1944, stationed in North Africa and Italy during WWII, Military Police 178th company Army Spl service 8th service command, Ft. Bliss and Ft. Sam Houston. He was a Lifetime member of American Legion Post 76 & Veterans of Foreign War Post 856.

After an honorable discharge from the Army, Willie & Elizabeth made their home in Austin, Texas.

He was a devout Catholic and passed on his love of Jesus to everyone he encountered. His family and his faith were most important to him. He especially enjoyed his grandchildren who affectionately called him "Grampa" or "Popo."

Willie lived his life always doing what was right. Ever watchful and vigilant, Willie made sure that others did the same. This served him well in the Army military police during WWII. It also guided his every decision in the workplace. After service to his country, Willie became a highly skilled and much valued tailor for over 30 years.

Before his last tour of duty overseas, Willie married Elizabeth Ruiz. She was his loving wife and companion for 68 years.

With the heart of a big Texas rancher, Willie was very proud of his twelve-acre spread in Manchaca, Texas where he and Elizabeth raised their two daughters. Later in life, the opportunity to live in the heart of the Texas hill country took Willie and Elizabeth to Blanco, Texas where they built a house and raised livestock far away from the big city.

Willie was known for his appreciation of law enforcement and uniformed service members. This stems from his great respect for the law and for military service and he frequently stopped to talk to those in uniform. Willie also believed in the power of God's love which he demonstrated through his very strong Catholic faith. He and Elizabeth have long been valued servants in the Diocese of Austin.

During their 68 year marriage, Willie & Elizabeth traveled frequently to California, West Texas, Canada and Europe. In 1985 during a visit to Italy, Willie had the honor of shaking hands with Pope John Paul II.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Benigno and Manuelita Garcia; sister, Lupita Garcia Rojas.

Willis is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ruiz Garcia of Blanco, Texas; children, Salvador R. Garcia (Ann), AnnMarie Garcia Woolsey (Kirk), Elizabeth Garcia Nichols (Bill); grandchildren, Jennifer Garcia Llanes (Nick); Joseph Garcia Christensen; William Garrick Garcia Nichols; Isabella Marie Garcia Nichols; Ann Garcia Downes (John); Margarita Garcia (Louis); nine great-grandchildren; foster son, Oscar Segura and daughter, Veronica Segura of Blanco; siblings, Connie Garcia Galindo, Betty Garcia Hunter both of California, Ida Prieto Hernandez of El Paso.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 2620 South Congress Avenue. Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, January 10, 2013 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church with Reverend Bill Wack C.S.C. officiating. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery.