Andres Garza Sr.

Andres “Andy” Garza Sr., 81, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, surrounded by love. Andy was born in Edinburg, Texas, to Petra Salinas and Melchor Garza, where he spent his early years and attended Edinburg High School. He proudly earned his GED from Aims Community College, a reflection of his determination and commitment to personal growth.

In 1965, Andy joined the Texas Army National Guard, where he served honorably for four years. During his service, he rose to the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in December of 1969. Following his military service, Andy pursued his lifelong passion for cooking, working as a chef for many years. His talent in the kitchen was matched only by the love he poured into every meal he prepared.

In 1977, Andy moved to Salem, Oregon, where he met the love of his life, Jane Ayala. Together, they shared a journey that took them from Oregon to Colorado, back to Texas, and ultimately back to Colorado in 1980, where they made their home. Andy later earned his bachelor’s degree in counseling and devoted many years to helping others through his work at Island Grove Detox and The Villa Halfway House. His compassion, patience, and genuine care left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Andy’s life was deeply rooted in faith. In 1992, he gave his life to Christ, a decision that shaped the rest of his years. He joyfully volunteered his time and talents, often cooking for his church and offering counseling to those in need. Music was another expression of his faith, and he faithfully served on the worship teams at Templo Jerusalem in Gill, La Trinidad in Greeley, and Iglesia Siloe, where he sang and played guitar with heartfelt devotion.

Andy will be remembered as a man of service, faith, and love, always willing to lend a hand, share a meal, or offer encouragement to anyone who needed it. His warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, San Juana “Jane” Garza; his children Andy; JoAnn and her husband Adam; Steve and his wife Gloria; and Yvette and her husband Dominick, all of Arizona; and Amy, Tanya and her husband Junior, and Luke, all of Colorado. He also leaves behind 24 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, who were a constant source of pride and joy in his life. Andy is also survived by his siblings Pete, Gudalia, Janie, Keta, Belinda, and Emelda, all of Edinburg, Texas.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, Petra and Melchor Garza, and by his brothers Amadeo Garza of Oregon and David Garza of Edinburg, Texas.

Andy’s legacy of faith, service, music, and unconditional love will live on through the many lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.