René L. García

1945 - 2022

September 27, 1945 - July 25, 2022 René L. García, 76, of Indio, California, died on July 25, 2022, in Indio. He was born on September 27, 1945, to Rodolfo and Carolina Palacios García in Mercedes, Texas. He married Martha Chimely on June 20, 1969, in Mercedes, Texas. His children, Michael A. García (Angélica) of Upland and Jason L. García (Marissa) of Indio, survive him. He has four grandchildren, Andrew R. García, Lilyana C. García, Natalia M. García, and Jason M. García. René García earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science/Business from the University of Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and graduated in 1968. He and his wife moved to California from Texas in 1969. He worked with the Employment Development Department (EDD) from 1968 until 1973. In 1973, he began working for the State of California Department of Rehabilitation. As a rehabilitation supervisor, he provided training and resources for individuals with disabilities. He worked for the state of California for forty years and retired in 2008. René was active in the community by volunteering, coaching, and running for public office. In 1983, he joined El Progreso del Desierto Family Health Center and worked on providing health resources for the local community. That same year he ran for office and was elected to the Desert Sands Unified School District Board of Education (DSUSD). He served on the board from 1983 until 1992. The board recognized him for his outstanding contributions to the students in DSUSD. René; always believed that it was necessary to volunteer and give back to the community. He was an assistant coach to his sons' baseball, soccer, and flag football teams. He encouraged his friends, family, and colleagues to volunteer and donate to the United Way. During Thanksgiving and Christmas, he volunteered with a local church providing meals and toys for children and families in need. Friends and family describe René as an individual with a "wealth of knowledge, a true leader, and tirelessly working to improve the lives of people in the community." His work ethic was impeccable. René L. García was a loving husband, dedicated father, fun-loving grandfather, and a friend to everyone. Memorial Service: Monday, August 8, 2022, 5-8 pm Church Unlimited 45520 Clinton Street Indio, CA 92201 Memorial Service at 6 pm Burial Service: Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at 9 am Coachella Valley Cemetery 82925 52nd Avenue Coachella, CA 92236 New Journey Cremation & Funeral Services www.newjourneycremation.com Phone: (442) 256-4444