Harriette Ann Garcia

Gresham resident Harriette Ann Garcia passed away on February 16, 2011. She was 78. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Tuesday, February 22 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church (8705 E. Burnside, Portland). A committal service with Military Honors will be held at Willamette National Cemetery at a later date.

Harriette was born in Merrill, Wisconsin to Clarence and Ella (Hinz) Whitney. She was born into a very patriotic family with many members serving in the military at one point or another. Her father fought in WWI, she lost a brother to the Asia-Pacific War and her sister served in the Navy. The Whitney family even has letters written during the Civil War by ancestors who were fighting in it. Harriette followed suit and shortly after graduating from Merrill High School, she enlisted in the United States Air Force. She advanced to Second Airman and was Airman of the Month four times. She worked as a cryptographer and even decades after her service refused to disclose anything she had worked on during those years. She simply stated to curious friends and family that she was sworn to secrecy and would never break her oath. It was in the Air Force that she met fellow serviceman Raymond Garcia. After writing home to her parents asking for their permission, she and Raymond were married on June 6, 1953. Harriette moved to Portland and stayed with her mother while Raymond served overseas for a year. When he returned, they moved to California. Harriette worked at an independent bank as a loan officer, later being promoted to Vice President of the bank as well as a member of the board of directors. She retired after 35 years to enjoy a peaceful home life with Ray. They moved to Gresham 23 years ago to be closer to her family.

Harriette sang in her church choir. She was very athletic and loved golfing and bowling. She played on a league for many years and won several championships. She dabbled in antiquing and collected glassware, figurines, ceramics and Native America art. She also liked to crochet.

Harriette is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Raymond Garcia of Gresham, OR; sons, Michael Garcia of Cathedral City, CA; Steven Garcia of Carson City, NV; daughters, Susan Garcia of Indio, CA; Kathryn Hunter of Indio, CA; brother, Harry Whitney of Gresham, OR; sisters, Betty Prieve of Madison, WI; Alta Hamilton of Portland, OR; and four grandchildren, Tanner Garcia; Tessa Garcia; Kristopher Hunter; and Katie Hunter.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Loaves and Fishes.

Arrangements under the direction of Bateman Carroll Funeral Home, Gresham, OR.