Joseph C. Garcia

Joseph Charles Garcia (Joe) a proud native New Mexican was born in 1934 in the New Mexican mining town of Madrid to Pedro and Melba (Kozlowski) Garcia. His family moved to neighboring Cerrillos, NM where he along with his two younger sisters Tilly and Lucille were raised.

After serving in the US Navy, Joe attended both Universities of Albuquerque and of New Mexico, all while working for Sandia National Labs and supporting his wife, Bertha and two little girls.

Upon graduating with his BBA, he made a career change to the Federal Government, Dept. of Energy. His advancement to Senior Executive status for the Department of Labor transfered him from New Mexico, where he continued to maintain a home, until his eventual return. His work relocated him to Kansas City, Seattle, Denver, and finally Dallas, their final assignment prior to his retirement.

During this time he and his wife Bertha explored, traveled, and enjoyed various adventures, forging life long friendships across the country.

Joe and Bertha (daughter of Jesus and Mary Silva of Monticello, NM), were five days shy of celebrating their 61st wedding anniversary at his passing. They raised two daughters, Odette and Agatha.

Odette Denman resides in Albuquerque with husband Craig. Son, Justin Muehlmeyer and wife Dorca Lee. Son, Connor of Denver, CO.

Agatha Sanchez resides in South Tijeras with husband Andrew. Son, Landon Ryan of Pocatello, ID. Daughter, Monica Darnell and husband Chad, children, Eli and Ava.

Joe was a man of integrity, determination, honesty, resolve and generous to a fault. He was the same man addressing a diplomat as he was speaking to a man on the street. He practiced what he preached, he kept his word, he spoke his mind, and he lived a life of sacrificial love and devotion to his family who affectionately referred to him as the "king of good works." He was always there when you needed him.

He was steadfastily supportive of all their endeavors, having faithfully attended sports, concerts, and various other activities. Upon Bertha's diagnosis of late-onset Parkinsons in 2006, Joe dedicated himself to her care until a dramatic decline in his own health was hastened by a fall in June of 2018.

An adept conversationalist, Joe's passion meant he never shied away from robust debate, as anyone who knew him well would attest. Afterward, he treated everyone to a nice dinner---where they could order anything they wanted!

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Bertha; daughter, Odette Denman and husband Craig; and their children, Justin Muehlmeyer and wife, Dorca Lee, and Connor Denman; daughter, Agatha Sanchez and husband, Andrew and their children, Landon Ryan and Monica Darnell and her family; sister, Tillie White and husband, Frank. Celebration of his Life Open House will be held Friday, February 1, 2019 from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at FRENCH – Lomas Reception Center. Please visit our online guestbook for Joseph.

FRENCH - Lomas

10500 Lomas Blvd NE

(505) 275-3500

www.FrenchFunerals.com