Frank Carlos Garcia, Jr.

Frank "Pop" Garcia

Frank Garcia Jr., lovingly known to family and friends as Pop or Pancho, passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 75. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, he was the proud son of Frank Carlos Garcia Sr. and Maria De La Luz "Lucy" Garcia, nephew to Ernestina "Ernie" Morales, and devoted brother of David Garcia. He carried both his Midwestern upbringing and his strong Mexican roots with pride throughout his life. His heritage was an essential part of who he was — shaping his values, his traditions, his humor, and his deep devotion to family.

Frank was the beloved husband of Sandra Maria Garcia, devoted (step)father to Brenda Crane, Brian Crane, and Miguel Ortiz-Crane, and stepfather-in-law to Benny Vasquez. Nothing brought him greater joy than his role as Pomma or Grampa to his cherished grandchildren — Yessenia Crane, Candis Ariela and Valentina Luna Ortiz-Vasquez, and Alex Rodriguez. His family was his greatest accomplishment and his proudest legacy.

Professionally, Frank built a respected career as a Civil Engineer at Black & Veatch, where he was known for his dedication, responsibility, and steady leadership. He approached his work the same way he approached life — with integrity, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Outside of work, Frank lived fully and enthusiastically. He was a passionate sports fan, faithfully cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays, Missouri Tigers, and Kansas Jayhawks. Game days were serious business in his world, filled with spirited commentary and unwavering loyalty.

Music was another great joy in his life. He loved classic rock and reggae, often filling the room with the timeless sounds of artists like The Eagles and Bob Marley. Whether relaxing with a glass of wine or partaking in family gatherings, his playlists set the tone — soulful, vibrant, and full of life, just like him.

Frank possessed a brilliant and curious mind, always reaching beyond the surface to understand more. Books were both his refuge and his adventure, opening doors to new ideas and distant worlds. Whether effortlessly answering trivia questions on Jeopardy! or Cash Cab and/or sharing a well-timed fact from memory, he carried his knowledge with quiet confidence. His insight, wisdom, and thoughtful reflections left an enduring imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud creature of habit, Frank found joy in life's simple pleasures — a good bottle of wine, a comfortable routine, and time spent with those he loved. He was incredibly giving, stubborn in the most endearing ways, deeply loving, highly responsible, and modest about his many strengths. He was quick to lovingly call someone a "knucklehead" or exclaim "Ay chihuahua!" when things didn't go according to his standards — moments that will now echo warmly in the hearts of those who knew him.

Raised Catholic, Frank's faith remained strong throughout his life. His beliefs and values were evident in the way he lived — with quiet strength, generosity, and compassion for others.

Frank's life was one of devotion — to his family, his work, his teams, and his traditions. While he will be deeply missed, his laughter, lessons, sayings, and steady presence will live on through the family he loved so fiercely.

In celebrating Frank's life, we remember a man who showed up, stood firm, gave generously, and loved wholeheartedly. His legacy is not only in what he accomplished, but in the family he nurtured and the memories he created.

Pop, you will forever be loved, remembered, and toasted with a good glass of wine.

Rest in peace.