Leo Melo Garcia

Leo Garcia was born on March 3, 1930, in Breckenridge, Texas, and in 1945, he made his way to California. In 1960, Leo married Dolores Rodriguez, and together they raised four children—Anna Candelaria, Charlie Garcia, Elaine Jones, and John Garcia. In 1969, they settled into their family home in Milpitas, California, where they would remain for decades.

Leo enjoyed traveling with Dolores—taking trips to Disney World, Hawaii, Texas, and other destinations.

The entirety of Leo’s career was in the auto industry, beginning when he and Dolores arrived in Milpitas. He worked first at the nearby Ford Motor Company and later at NUMMI. During his tenure, Leo quickly earned the respect of his peers and served as a Union Representative Committeeman until his retirement in 1995.

At home, Leo was a man of many talents. When he wasn’t busy doing home repairs or tending to his garden, he was often found in the garage or backyard mixing colors to paint his latest creation. Leo had a love of music, dancing, and watching old westerns on TV.

In his later years, he found quiet contentment in watching his family grow—feeling proud of his children and grandchildren, and grateful to have lived long enough to see his great-grandchildren, Eliana (4) and Javier (1).

Leo lived a good, full life and took delight in knowing he made it to 95.