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Richard Garza Obituary
1965-2018
Richard Paul Garza, 52 was born in Galveston, Texas, to Connie and Gus Garza on July 20, 1965. He is survived by his wife, Jody Garza, and two sons, Burke and John Greer Garza, as well as his mother Connie Garza and his three brothers and their wives: Hector Garza, Rene and Cindy Garza, and Robert and Kathy Garza, his in-laws John and Linda Ingram of Smithville, TN, and brother in law and wife John and Lori Ingram of Shawnee, Kansas and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Gustavo Garza, and sister-in-law, Teri Garza.
Richard grew up on the Gulf Coast alongside his older brothers. After graduating from Ball High School (Galveston, TX), he attended Texas A &M University School of Architecture and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Science. He was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity where he made many long-lasting friendships. He met his wife Jody Garza in 1989, proposing along the Galveston seawall and marrying her the following year. In 2004, after 15 years in the construction industry, he began his own company, Garza Program Management, which became involved in some of North Texas' most important construction projects: the Winspear Opera House and Wyly Theater in Downtown Dallas' Arts District, the Science Learning Center at the University of Texas at Dallas, and the renovation of all 5 terminals in Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. As a member of the Boys and Girls Club of Dallas, he consistently gave back to local schools and club centers, speaking with Hispanic youth and spearheading the effort to renovate the club facilities. As a father, he constantly encouraged his children to be the best in sports, arts, and academics. He was an avid hunter, fly-fishermen, and loved to tailgate during football season for his Fightin' Texas Aggies. In 2011, he received 11th place in the Aggie 100, an honor given by Texas A&M's Mays Business School to the fastest-growing alumni-owned businesses. He was quoted at the ceremony saying, "1. Be memorable. 2. You will never have enough money to start your own company; it will never be the perfect time. So start anyway! 3. Everyone will think you can't make it. Don't be one of them. 4. Don't take no for an answer; be persistent."
He was a loving and caring husband, father, brother, son and friend who will be greatly missed.
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Garza
A. L.
March 6, 2019
May the family be comforted by Jesus' promise of seeing your dear loved one again. John 6:40.
J B
March 4, 2019
The reading of the scriptures will always give spiritual comfort and peace during this time of deep sorrow. Please accept our condolences on the loss of your beloved Richard Garza. Jeremiah 29:11-13
Karina
March 4, 2019
I am so sorry to hear about your loss,
may the joyful memories and prayer help strengthen you during this difficult time. (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
March 31, 2018
Richard and I were classmates and fraternity brothers...I'm truly saddened to learn of his passing. He always wore a smile and was such a pleasant man to be around. To his family and those whom were close to him, please accept my sincerest condolences. May he Rest In Peace.
Regards,
Barry Peters
Tricia and Patrick McGowan
March 29, 2018
We were so sad to hear from Ellen of Richard's passing. Our sincere condolences to the entire Garza family.
Frank Novosad
March 23, 2018
I was so saddened to hear of Richard's passing. I worked with him for over two years in the late 90's on the DISD Bond Program. He was always a joy to be around. We had many discussions about Texas A & M as I also graduated from there. He will be sorely missed. My heart and prayers go out to you and the family.
Andrew Wang
March 22, 2018
Jody, I doubt you will remember me, but I was working with Richard at Clearwater Constructors when the two of you met. I recall how he told me that after your first date, he thought you could be "the one". I'm glad that he was right.
Although I only worked with him for a year, I thought very highly of Richard. He became a fast friend, and we had many great conversations while sweating out in the hot Arlington sun at the then-new James Bowie High School.
I was greatly shocked and very much saddened when I saw the posting on his LinkedIn profile for his memorial service. The world is that much smaller now without him. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend but know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this time.
Bobby Stone
March 22, 2018
Jody,
Your husband was such a great person and we all feel the loss very deeply. Please accept our condolences, and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
David Monge
March 21, 2018
To the Garza's,
I am so sorry to hear about Richard. I was lucky enough to live in the fraternity house when he was at A&M and I can't remember anyone who was more kind and helpful to everyone. Such a great man.
Paul McCann
March 21, 2018
Jody,
We are heartbroken to hear the news of Rich's passing. Please know that we send our love and prayers.
We have such wonderful memories of our times together and even though we have not seen you for quite awhile, we are keeping you close in our hearts.
All our love,
Paul and Denise McCann
Carl, Jackie, Nicole, Nathan Ondracek
March 20, 2018
We are so sorry for your loss. May you feel God's strength and love during this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Valerie Barlow
March 19, 2018
Dearest Jody,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys at this very sad time. We are deeply sorry for your loss. We will keep all of you in our prayers.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Valerie Barlow, Max and Sam Knippers
Mike Loinette
March 19, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of my friend and colleague, Richard. I wish the family well and know of your sorrow. Focus on the good memories.
Asad, Nasreen and Abeer Karim
March 18, 2018
Very saddened to hear the news. Our heartfelt condolences to the family.
Barbara Johnson
March 18, 2018
I am sad to hear of Richard's passing. He was a kind and friendly person and will be greatly missed. My family sends our sincere condolences and love.
Azi Ganji
March 18, 2018
Dear Jody, Burke and John Greer,
The news of Richards passing saddened us tremendously. We got to know him as Burks Dad- a very kind, polite and approachable person.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We pray for strength and patience to carry you through these hard times.
Rob, Azi, Cyrus (SM class of 15), and Darius Ganji
March 18, 2018
Jody, May God wrap you and your boys in his arms and carry you through this loss. I am so sorry! Terri Sue
Casey Fleming
March 18, 2018
Rich will always be remembered as a bright light, full of life, and the one who lifted everyone up. An outstanding guy, Rich will be greatly missed but remembered by all.
The Men of Tau Kappa Epsilon
Texas A&M University
Pi-Eta Chapter
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