Miguel "Mickey" Angel Garcia

Miguel was a proud longtime employee of Zenith Electronics in Melrose Park, Illinois and a dedicated member of IBEW LOCAL 1031, where he served as a Master Maintenance Mechanic from 1967 to 1992. For 25 years, he helped keep the plant running through his exceptional skill, technical expertise, reliability, and unwavering commitment to his fellow workers.

Miguel’s life was defined not only by his years of service, but by his sacrifice, courage, and devotion to family. He was a man who quietly carried the weight of responsibility without seeking recognition, yet whose actions changed the course of many lives.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Hector García. His parents Miguel Angel García and Aurora Fernandez Llada.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Zoila Clemencia Mariduena García; his loving son, Dennis García, his daughter in law Jessica Kontopoulos, co-parent in law, Darlene Kontopoulos; his cherished grandchildren, Jazmine and Axel; as well as his beloved siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

His niece, goddaughter Lili Chamizo-Torres shared a powerful reflection:

“Hello Dennis, David told us about your father’s passing earlier today. I’m so sorry. I know this must be truly a difficult time for you, particularly given Michael’s unexpected passing just a few months ago.

I want to take the time to tell you how important and pivotal Mayito was in each of our family members’ lives. He was the one who risked his life one night as part of a band of inexperienced sailors, leaving a life of misery behind. They almost perished because they missed the Florida coastline, out of water or supplies, but were luckily rescued near the Bahamas by a Greek fishing boat and later transported and welcomed by a U.S. Navy ship.

Afterwards, your dad (my oldest uncle and godfather) set out to get visas for his parents and all of his siblings and their families. When each of us arrived, he helped settle and guide us. My mom adored him and still does. She loved when he would visit for cafecitos and her cooking. He never bragged about what he did for us, but we all knew and remain deeply grateful for his sacrifices. Even when we tried to thank him, he would simply downplay it.

Primo, please stay strong and share my condolences with Axel and Jessica. Let us know when and where the service will be. Sending you my love. May Padrino rest in eternal peace.”

Miguel was a man of quiet strength, humility, and profound generosity. He worked hard, sacrificed deeply, and helped build a foundation for his family’s future without ever asking for recognition.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Master Maintenance Mechanic, union brother of IBEW LOCAL 1031, protector of his family, and a man whose legacy lives on through every life he touched.

Rest in peace, Miguel Angel García . Your work, your sacrifice, generosity, and your love will never be forgotten. 🙏🏽