Lawrence Garcia

Lawrence Garcia of Libby passed away Sept. 4, 2021, when his generous heart could no longer sustain him. Larry briefly opened his eyes for hugs, kisses and our encouraging words of love before our Lord Jesus Christ took Larry by the hand as he peacefully slipped away that evening. This wonderful man was surrounded by loved ones near and far.

Larry was born July 29, 1951, in Los Angeles to Henry and Velia (Trujillo) Garcia. He was raised in Santa Paula, Calif., with his brothers, Henry and Bill Garcia. His family had strong ties to Cottonwood, Ariz., with many relatives and friends living there. It was the place for many get-togethers and of great childhood memories.

Larry played football while he attended Santa Paula High School, where he graduated as senior class president in 1969. He continued his education and football career at Ventura College and Cal State Northridge. Larry earned his master’s degree in education at Portland State University and was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.

Larry enjoyed careers in retail and outside sales management, but his true love was teaching elementary education in Oregon and California. He lived where his interests led him. Cottonwood, Flagstaff, Phoenix, Michigan, Oregon, Ventura County and eventually back to Cottonwood. It was there that Larry and Leslie met in the mid 1970s. Their friendship continued across the miles for 37 years. Then their paths crossed again in Arizona. They eventually began a great marriage and, in 2018, they packed up and returned to Leslie’s home in Libby, Montana.

Although he never had children of his own, Larry cherished watching the younger cousins as they grew up. He was bestowed the utmost honor of being “Cousin Uncle Larry” to a few beautiful young ladies who were very special to him.

An incredible music collection, devoted concert attendance (more than 700!) and beautiful guitar playing bore out his love of music. Larry gifted family and friends with custom music CDs. You are lucky if you received them!

Larry is survived by his loving wife and longtime friend, Leslie (Irwin) Garcia; brother, Bill (Melinda) Garcia; nieces, Casey, Courtney and Donna; Melinda’s son, Matt (Brielle) Scott, daughter, Kelsey (Terry) Cosgrove, and grandsons, Owen, Brooks and Ben; cousin/sisters, Debra Trujillo and Rhoberta (Orly) Paz; Leslie's daughter, Shawna Norry (Jeremy), son, Jay (Dawn) Norry, and grandchildren Selinna Maefau (Brandon) and DJ Maefau (Bobbi); many cousins and his lifelong best friend ever, Sammy Salas of Santa Paula, Calif.

Larry was welcomed to his heavenly home by his parents; brother, Henry Garcia; Padrinos, Tias, Tios; and cousins as well as countless friends.

Larry lived a well-done, honorable life and loved us all.

Rest in peace, my love.

Condolences and memories may be posted at schnackenbergfh.com. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby. Services will take place Nov. 20, 2021, in Cottonwood, Ariz. Location and time will be posted when determined.