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Rudolph Garcia Obituary

Garcia, Rudolph "Rudy Restaurateur Entrepreneur Loving Father, Grandfather, Brother & Uncle. Age 61, preceded in death by parents, Jose & Inez Garcia; brothers, Steven, Raymond, Narcie, Phillip (Peppo), Joe Sr. the 2nd and Sister Mary (Chelo) Garcia. Survived by sons, Ronald (Brandy), Jay (Marney); daughters, Sara and Sally; grandchildren Logan, Lilyanna, Paige and Mathew; Sisters, Refugia (Cuca) Lopez and Alice Meszaros, and the Castillo Family. Rudy was born and raised on St. Paul's Westside, he was a member of the Jay Mars, and was well known for founding Garcia's Restaurants and many others throughout the St. Paul area. He had an energy about him that made him special. He will be dearly missed by his family and all his friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family. Visitation 5-8PM Wednesday at WEST FUNERAL HOME, 1051 S. Robert St, WSP. Memorial Mass, 10AM Thursday at OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, Highway 52 @ Concord St. WSP. West Funeral Home 651-457-6200

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Published by Pioneer Press from Aug. 29 to Aug. 30, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Rudolph Garcia

Not sure what to say?





Richard Aguilar

February 23, 2025

The one and only Rudy Garcia! We grew up together at Kentucky and State Street, West Side Flats in St. Paul. When they tore the West Side down, we went our own ways, only to meet again in 1961. I joined Rudy's rock group, the Jaymars in 1961 and the rest is West Side history. We were popular and our hit record "You're so Fine" had us playing gigs 6 nights a week. Rudy became cook as a teenager and that was his second love. In 1969 he opened Garica's Restaurant in downtown St. Paul and lived his life, serving great food, owning many restaurants and doing and living his life his way. Yes, Rudy was a true character he lived the "American Dream" RIP Vaya con Dios!

Annette (Chapman) Lopez

December 25, 2006

Merry Christmas Rudy,
I know every body was missing you last night, for you would dress up as santa for the kids. I remember you did that for our kids one year and they just loved it. I was going threw my old pictures and came across the one of you dressed as santa. My kids still remember that and I dont think they will ever forget it. God bless you Rudy.

Judith Aberdeen

September 8, 2006

Dear Jay, Marney and all the Garcia Family,

I had the privilege of meeting Rudy on several occasions. I heard his wonderful music, felt his enthusiasm and saw his zest for life! There was no doubt how much he loved his family.

Jay, you have become like a son to me. I know this has been so difficult for you and your family. You are in my prayers daily. I will always be here for all of you.

God bless.

Judith

Jay Garcia

September 7, 2006

Thanks for the wonderful poem. It meant so much and made so much sence. During this time I really needed to here that. It's also nice to here of all the good times you have experienced with my father. Thanks agian!

Gilbert Fuentes

September 7, 2006

Jay and Roncho.... Sorry to here about Papa Garcia.... God Bless him and all the family...



Estevan Fuentes..

Las Vagas,NV.

luis,carrie konobeck-benejam

September 6, 2006

Ron,Brandy and family sorry to hear about the loss of your dad, Rudy was a great guy and will be missed by all.you guys are in my thoughts and prayers during these hard times. sincerely,your friends Luis, Carrie, Korey and TinaMarie

Annette lopez

September 5, 2006

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...

but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.

Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.



Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.

Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,

God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."



It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.

As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.

I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.

There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."



God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.

And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.

God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.



When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years

because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.

Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.



I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.

But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.

But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.

I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.



There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;

but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...

that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.



If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,

then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."

And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,

knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.



So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,

just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.

When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;

I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.



And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,

remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.



Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)

©Copyright 1998-2006

Thomas Medina

September 5, 2006

dearest rudy, you will be missed by all who's live's you touched inclding me. you were a good friend to my tio jesse(my Pa). i'll alway's remember the good food and good time's my family had at your restraunt's(back in the day). god bless you, give my love to my Pa (tio jesse) his son, my cousin Jeff, rest in peace,& may god bless you.

Jay Garcia

September 3, 2006

Thanks to all for your wonderful thoughts, stories and prayers. It has helped me during this difficult situation. I wish his time here with us didn’t have to come to an end. He is no longer suffering as he is with his family in heaven and here in spirit as he watches over us. To me he was the best father and to my children the best grandpa ever. I LOVE YOU DAD!

LM "GARCIA" BARTEL

September 2, 2006

Dear Auntie JoAnn, Ronald and Jay,

On behalf of the Bartel Family, we are sending you are condolences, on the passing of your dad, our "Uncle Rudy". Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Keep his memories alive by talking about all the good times you used to have together, all the fun we used to have at the restuants, partying, and hanging out. Great thanks to your dad, because he gave Christopher our oldest son, one of his first jobs, busing tables, me, waiting on tables, that was a joke. And that laugh, that was one you cannot forget.

So Rudy, your at peace now, your with all your brothers and sisters who have gone before you. Please give a great big hug to my mom and dad, Marylou and Narcie



Love

THE BARTEL FAMILY

"KEKA"

Gary Walsh

September 1, 2006

Ronny & Jay



So sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great guy and uncle and will be missed.

You will be in our thoughts and prayers.



Gary Walsh (cousin)

& family

Butch and Mary Jo Thomas

September 1, 2006

Ron and family,

So sorry to hear about your Dad, our thoughts are with you.



Butch and Mary Jo Thomas

Mike Hernandez

September 1, 2006

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Rick Rodriguez

September 1, 2006

Jay & Ron Sorry to here about your dad's passing THE GOD FATHER he will be missed.

Manuel Prieto

August 31, 2006

Dear

John and Ray:

I am very sorry to hear from the loss of your father. Rudy was one of

the nicest, coolest guys I ever met. I will deeply miss him, the times

I cooked for him at Garcias, jamming with him, Tony and the Old Wolves, his great sense of humor and his laugh.



May God give you strength in this hardest of times.

Dawn Garcia

August 31, 2006

Jay & Ron,



I am very sorry for the loss of your dad. I remember him as being a very very nice guy. You are both in my thoughts at this difficult time.



Take care of each other.

Dawn Garcia

jeanne dorado

August 31, 2006

dear garcia family,

please accept our most heartfelt condolances on behalf of the (elizabeth jeanne gurrola-dorado)dorado family.

Linda (Vasquez) Huerta

August 31, 2006

Garcia Family sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember Rudy having his restaurant and club "The Little Village" in the same building. We would go and eat at the restaurant then go upstairs to dance. It was a blast! He also had a "girls baseball team" back in the 70's and I was a member of that team. When Rudy opened a new restaurant we HAD to go and eat of course. He will deeply be missed but not forgotten. God Bless you Rudy for all the memories and for what you have done for the West Side Community.

Dave Dufour & Family

August 31, 2006

JoAnne, Ron, and Jay, our thoughts are prayers are with you during this difficult time. It’s been years since I have seen you all, but it brings back very fond memories of the 70's and the restaurant days. Ruddy was great guy!

Anthony Vasquez

August 30, 2006

To Ron and Jay our prayers are with you and your families. Your father will be dearly missed. Love you guys.

Nicole Klarkowski Peterson (Cousin)

August 30, 2006

Ronnie, Jay, and Aunt JoAnne, my thoughts are prayers are with you during this difficult time. Just know that someone in Kansas is thinking of you all.

bonnie benscoter

August 30, 2006

ron ,jay, sara-rose, and sally, keep the memories close to your heart, they will carry you through.

Vanessa Warbler

August 30, 2006

Familia Garcia:

I remember being downtown and having lunch and running into Rudy, more often than not he served me lunch. I do not know your family, but I just remember how nice a man he was and always made it a point to say "hello". I was just a customer of his; he always treated me way better than that. 61 is way too young. Cherish your memories - they will keep him alive.

Fred and Sam Tejeda

August 30, 2006

Our hearts and prayers are with all of you. Rudy was a great person.

Tami Williams ( Ryan )

August 30, 2006

Dear Ronny & Jay,



Myself and my Mom are so sorry to hear about your loss. Rudy was like a Dad to me as well, especially after I lost my own father. We had some fun as kids in the neighborhood, Rudy made a wonderful Santa :) He will be truly missed by all, and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Gary Carr

August 30, 2006

To all of Rudy's loved ones and friends, so sorry for the loss!

Gary Carr

Humboldt High class of 1960

CHERYL MONTPETIT

August 30, 2006

TO THE GARCIA FAMILY,

WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOUR FATHER FROM MONTANITAS. HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE, AND MAKE EVERYONE AROUND HIM SMILE. FROM THE MONTPETIT FAMILY

Debbie Lopez

August 30, 2006

Jay & Ron, I am sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Losing a parent is not easy but do know that time does help the healing. God bless you and your families!

Angie Throndsen (Wenner)

August 30, 2006

Dear Ron and Jay,



It's been years since I've seen you both. Although I didn't really know your dad. I know the pain and sorrow you are feeling. I lost my dad in April of this year. Just cherish all the wonderful memories you have of your dad. Take comfort in knowing he had so many people that loved him. Your whole family will be in my thoughts and prayers.



Alice, Mike and Terry, Sorry for the loss of your brother and uncle.



Sincerely, Angie

Joleen Davis & Tom Evans

August 30, 2006

Jay & Marney & Garcia family,



You are in our thoughts and prayers. Only time will heal, stick together, help each other out. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to let us know.

Kathy Olson (Cousin)

August 30, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

August 30, 2006

Sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.



Carlos Urbina and family

Minneanpolis, Mn.

Zachary Lopez Sr

August 30, 2006

Hey Big Daddy,

You will be missed by many-you were there for me and helped me find the right path during a difficult time in my life. Say hi to Pa for me.

sonya walsh

August 30, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Sonya Walsh

(cousin)

Maureen Loonan

August 30, 2006

Rest in peace Rudy.

ROB SCHLOSSER

August 29, 2006

JAY & MARNEY, AND FAMILY OF RUDY...



SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DURING THIS TIME.....AND HIS "CELEBRATION OF LIFE"......



YOUR FRIEND

ROBERT W. SCHLOSSER

CUSTOM CHRISTMAS LIGHTING

Kay Buetow

August 29, 2006

Ronnie & Jay:





I know the coming days will be the hardest times. Your dad was a great man and I remember all the wonderful things that he did for my kids and Pat(Walsh). My thoughts and prayers are with you both.


Kay

Annette ( Chapman) Lopez

August 29, 2006

Ronny and Jay Norman,

I dont know what to say, words can not take away the pain that you are feeling at this time. My heart gose out to the both of you. Just know that we are thinking of you. The both of you and your dad are in our thoughts and prayers.



Rudy,Joann, and their two boys lived next door to us on Winifred street, My mom baby sat jay during tha week and my sister and I baby sat Ronny, Jay and their cousins Jason and tootoo on the weekends. When I was fifteen Rudy gave me my very first job as a dish washer on the weekends at Garcia's resturaunt down town St Paul. Rudy was like a second father to me. He looked out for my brothers my sister and me. when he would see us on the street he would make sure we were not in any trouble. And if he thought we were some where we shouldnt be he would tell us to get home. I will not forget Rudy. I still can hear his laugh.



I love you Ron & Jay you are like my little brothers.



I will miss you Rudy.

Adios Mi amigo

asta que nos veamos otra vez

bonnie benscoter

August 29, 2006

ron, jay, sara-rose: it is far beyond the sadness i have for rudy's passing. i have known him for sooooooooo long, and he was a part of our family. you kids hang together, and help each other. you will need to do that now. Condolences also to joanne, sandra, cuca and alice. this will be a great loss. Love you guys aunt Bonnie

Peggy Jo Luck

August 29, 2006

Ronald and Jay





I don't know what to say, I hope you know that you guys are in my thoughts and prayers always, your dad was always so nice to me, I will never forget him. Love ya, your cousin Peggy

Gaylord Eicher

August 29, 2006

Jay, Ron, Joanne,














You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during these challenging times.
















Rudy was a wonderful person and will definitely be missed by many.
















Sincerely,
















Your Cousin (Toot)

Fernando Fuentes

August 29, 2006

Roncho and Jay,





First of all my deepest sympathies go out to you guys. Your dad was a "cool" dad. He was always nice to me and my brothers. Ill never forget going to his clubs that you guys used to have and having fun. I will never forget the time that I went to Mazatlan and told him I was in the neighborhood and just stopped by to say hello.


I hope you guys are doing well.





Take care,





Fernando Fuentes

August 29, 2006

Ronny & Jay:




There is no way




to lessen the sorrow




of losing someone




so precious to you...




In time,




the heart heals,




leaving us




with memories —




not of our sorrow,




but of




the love




we have known.









Our thoughts




and sympathy




are with you.









Cousin:




Elizabeth (Beth) Walsh

PattiJo Verdeja

August 29, 2006

Ron


and Jay,










I am so sorry for the loss of your father. My deepest symapthies are with you both. You will be in my prayers. Love ya guys.













PattiJo

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