Joseph José M. Garza

He was born in Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, on April 24, 1927, and graduated from La Escuela de Monterrey, Nuevo Leon. In 1947, he was married to Linda Torres in San Antonio, Texas.

Joseph had a passion for his work, family and community. He was employed as a crane repairman at Great Lakes Steel for 33 years; where he also served as a Shop Steward for the United Steelworkers of America Local 1299. One job wasn’t enough for Joseph. He also was a staunch businessman, entrepreneur and visionary; in 1959 he was the founder of La Azteca Food Products and manufactured corn and flour tortillas, chorizo and pan de dulce in Ecorse, Michigan. As a pioneer in the Mexican food business, he also incorporated a USDA tamale factory. His business also included importing leather goods, silver, and art from Mexico, in addition to Mexican beers and tequila. In 2009, La Azteca celebrated its 50th Anniversary!

Joseph was a pillar in the community and served as a member and President of the Mexican Patriotic Committee in Detroit, Michigan; he was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; and served on the Downriver Federal Credit Union board of directors for 30 years in Ecorse, Michigan.

Married to his loving wife, Linda, they celebrated 64 years of matrimonial bliss! A highlight of their life together was raising their five children Blanca, Edna, Joey, Linda and Evelyn. Their children’s spouses include Michael, Russ, Mollie and Steve. Their grandchildren include Michele, Stephanie, Corey, Nicole, Angela and JoJo. Their great grandchildren include Danielle, Steven, Michael, Isabella, Natalie and Sophia. In true family tradition, La Familia Garza celebrates annual family reunions with close friends and family!

Joseph also had a passion for travel and enjoyed his family vacations in Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Guadalajara, Monterrey and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; fun trips also included vacationing in California, Florida, Hawaii and Lake Columbia, Michigan.

Funeral arrangements will be held at 10:00 am, March 9, at Lakeshore Mortuary. Please access the following link for service details and directions, and to sign the Guest Book: www.lakeshoremort.com