Rafael Simon Garcia

Rafael Simon Garcia, 68 of Sunnyside, passed away on August 25th 2012 doing what he loved best, riding his motorcycle on his way to the Salt Flats in Utah. Rafael had just entered retirement after teaching bilingual programs, advisory and wood technology classes for Mabton School District for 24 years.

He received his B.A. in Education, Cum Laude from Central Washington with a major in Technology Education and a minor in Engineering graphics. Rafael was very involved in his schools and community, volunteering on many committees such as Mabton School district safety committee, Leadership team with the school wide improvement project and also supervised the Washington state Americorps Workfirst volunteers. Besides his dedication to education, he also had 20 years work experience in the sheet metal trade. He worked on many projects throughout the Pacific Northwest from 1962-1982.

Rafael never took a break from teaching. He was appointed to the Washington state Motorcycle safety advisory board from 2001-2005. If you ever had a chance to ride with "Rafa", there was always a motorcycle or life lesson to be learned. He cared for all of his students whether you were with him in the classroom or on the road. His dedication will remain forever in all of our hearts.

Rafael is survived by his daughter, Gina Garcia; grandchildren, Eric, Ashley and Larry and two great grandchildren; brother, Tomas (Sallie) Garcia of Utah and sister Lisa (Paul) Hurt, four nieces, numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, work associates and brothers and sisters of the motorcycle community.

Preceded in death are his father, Simon Garcia and mother Lydia Rodriguez and a brother, Rudy Garcia.

Rafael's print in this world will be missed, but never forgotten. He taught about sacrifice, dedication, commitment, safety, and most importantly friendship.

Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home has been entrusted with his arrangements. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Mabton High School Gymnasium on October 6, 2012 at 1:00 pm.

A "RIDE FOR RAFA" will be prior to the public service and will meet at the Yakima Target at 10:00 am with kickstands up at 11:00 am. and we will ride to the Mabton High School via the "scenic route" in memory of him. Only Rafael could turn a 40 minute ride into a two hour ride.