Rafael was born on April 1, 1939, in Alto Songo, Oriente, Cuba, to Antonio Luis Garcia and Maria Visitacion Garcia. He was the beloved brother of Antonio Garcia.
From the age of six, Rafael worked alongside his father on the family farm and coffee plantation in Cuba. He was a hardworking and determined young man who dreamed of continuing his education in Havana. Sadly, the political changes in Cuba brought that dream to an unexpected end and changed the course of his life.
Throughout his life, Rafael embraced every opportunity to work hard and provide for his family. He held many different jobs, including driving tractor-trailers across the United States, which allowed him to see and experience parts of the country he had never imagined visiting. He also worked as a mechanic and, at one point, found himself working on Wall Street as a banker.
Rafael was especially proud of his many years with Con Edison, where he worked for 35 years before retiring. His strong work ethic, determination, and resilience were hallmarks of his character throughout his life.
Above all, Rafael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen; his daughter, Sylvia; and his granddaughter, Jillian.
Rafael will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, generous heart, unwavering strength, and the warmth and love he shared with everyone around him. He touched the lives of many and leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.
