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Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family that lasted 60 beautiful years.

John Henry Garcia was born on January 16, 1943, in Long Beach, California. He was raised in San Pedro, where his family made their home. He passed away peacefully on Monday, June 29, at 11:32 p.m. at his home, surrounded by his beloved wife Katherine, his children, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.

John was the son of Gilbert and Juanita Garcia. He was one of four brothers and is now reunited in Heaven with his parents and siblings, Gilbert, Raul, and William.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Katherine (Kathy) Garcia, and their children: John Garcia (Denise), Kevin Garcia (Judy), and Teresa Garcia.

He was a proud grandfather to Michael (Elizabeth), Timothy, Matthew, Jordyn, Taylor, Elijah, Caleb, Joel, and Eliana, and a loving great-grandfather to Ayden, Jayce, Elijah, and Josiah.

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John loved fishing, hunting, camping, racing cars, and working with his hands.

John began working at a young age, first at Bandini Store and later at his father’s gas station. During that time, he met Katherine, and they began dating before he was drafted into the National Guard. While serving their relationship continued to grow, and the two were married at the age of 23 and 22. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family that lasted 60 beautiful years.

Following his military service, John worked at Douglas Aircraft, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance while helping support aircraft production during the Vietnam War. When the war ended and production slowed, he was laid off. He then worked at Century Motor Shop before beginning a 30-year career as a mechanic with the City of Los Angeles, eventually transferring to the Los Angeles Harbor Department, where he retired.

Throughout his career, John became known for his incredible mechanical ability and unwavering work ethic. He could fix just about anything and was recognized for his outstanding service by both Douglas Aircraft and the City of Los Angeles.

Outside of work, John loved fishing, hunting, camping, racing cars, and working with his hands. He was also active in his community through Sires, where he helped with school dances, and at Calvary Assembly of God through Royal Rangers, mentoring young boys by taking them fishing, camping, and teaching them outdoor skills. He entered many church pinewood derbies with John and Kevin.

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His legacy of faith, hard work, generosity, humor, and unconditional love will continue through the generations he leaves behind.

Those who knew John knew him for his warm smile and his willingness to help anyone in need. Whether fixing something, sharing his knowledge, or teaching practical life skills, he gave generously of his time. The lessons he taught his own children and grandchildren continue to live on through them.

Above all else, John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy was his family. His legacy of faith, hard work, generosity, humor, and unconditional love will continue through the generations he leaves behind.

John Henry Garcia will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.