Obituary of Leonardo Garcia

Garcia, Leonardo "Lee" Saginaw, Michigan Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and dear friend passed away on May 13, 2020 after a well fought battle with cancer. He was 69 years old. Leonardo Garcia was born on April 3, 1951 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Leandro and Delfina (Zamora) Garcia. He graduated from Buena Vista High School and went on to earn an Associate's Degree in Fire Science Technology from Delta College and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Saginaw Valley State University. He was also a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program. Leonardo served in public safety for over 30 years. He started as a firefighter with the City of Saginaw in 1979 where he held many ranks including paramedic, training officer, lieutenant and through hard work became the department's Assistant Fire Chief in 1999. In 2002, he went on to became the Fire Chief for the City of Midland where his expertise and leadership were valued until he retired in 2011. Being the hard worker and lifelong learner that he was, post retirement he served as the Fire Science Technology Coordinator at Delta College from 2013-2018. Lee truly loved his career and had the utmost work ethic. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lee was an active member in his parish, St. Joseph Catholic Church, and devoted time in the Cursillo. He was truly a pillar in the community in which he lived. Leonardo married his wife, Alice on August 31, 1996. He loved to travel and spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Many family memories were made "up north" in Ludington, MI camping with his wife and family, as well as in his home where he and his wife enjoyed hosting family gatherings that allowed for extended family members to get together for laughs and good food. Lee could often be found tending to his yard and landscaping. He also enjoyed playing basketball and was dedicated to fitness long before it was the "in" thing to do. He organized many community sports leagues and was very attentive to the activities and sports throughout his children's younger years. An all-around true role model. Leonardo is survived by his wife, Alice; children: Melissa (Dan) Vela, Marcel Garcia and Miranda (Patrick) Wilson; his grandsons who brought joy to his heart: Anthony (Stephanie) Rocha, Daniel Vela and Angelo Vela; siblings: Gloria Rosas, Enrique (Joette) Garcia, Linda (Robert) Rosas, Julian Garcia, Leandro (Tara) Garcia, Elizabeth Garcia and Deon Garcia; brother-in-law, Richard Garcia. Lee is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. He was preceded in death by two sisters: Dora Garcia and Angelita Garcia; and brother-in-law, Frank Rosas. He shared a special bond and relationship with Angelita. SERVICE: A Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 14, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 936 N. 6th Street, Saginaw, MI 48601. Rev. Fr. Francis Voris, OFMCap will officiate. Entombment will be at Oakwood Mausoleum. Firefighter honors will be held under the direction of the City of Midland Fire Department. VISITATION: Family and friends will gather from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 13, 2020 at the Andersen Enrichment Center-Outdoor Garden, 120 Ezra Rust Dr., Saginaw, MI 48601. A vigil service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday lead by Joe Trevino. Visitation will continue at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Due to restrictions set forth by the State of Michigan and the worldwide health pandemic, all visitors are required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Road (off of State St.), Saginaw is honored to be serving the Garcia family. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com.