Larry Garcia

Joseph Garcia, 72, born on October 19, 1952, in Santa Fe, New Mexico—remarkably, in his great-grandmother’s barn. He passed away July 16, 2025. He resided in Buena Park, CA at the time of his passing. Arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Cypress, CA. Larry’s early years were filled with a love for the outdoors and animals. From raising lizards, snakes, and fish, to discovering his lifelong passion for fishing, he found joy and peace in nature. What began in streams and rivers eventually led to deep-sea fishing adventures with his nephews Patrick and Phillip. One of the highlights of his life was a dream-come-true trip to Alaska with Phillip. As a child, Larry filled his days playing football and baseball with his neighborhood friends, including Tony DePippo and Mike Clemons. In high school, he discovered a talent for woodcarving, even creating a hand-carved coffee table for his mother that she treasured. His time in the military took him around the world—South Korea, Northern California, and Colorado Springs—broadening his perspective and deepening his love for service and travel. Larry also had a legendary love of food, He never passed up a good meal—whether it was his mother Pauline’s famous green chili burgers or Just ask his nephews Austin and Elliot, who remember a trip to Disneyland: after a full day of rides and indulging in food and snacks, they barely made it out of the parking lot when Larry announced, “Let’s go to Taco Bell (!)'. Another one of his great passions was going to the movies with his sister Lily—and yes (!) the concession stand was always the first stop.

Larry’s educational journey included Elizabeth Dickerson Elementary, Orangeview Junior High, Western High School, and Saint Mary’s High School. These formative years shaped a man of warmth, humor, and loyalty—qualities he carried into every chapter of his life. 

Larry is survived by his beloved sister, Lily Garcia Aragon, and a large family with a host of cherished nieces and nephews. His family includes Paul, Jill, Nicholas, Yomali, Dyrdra, Brandon, Leslea, Jaden, Alex, Patrick, Josie Alexis, Andrew, Jillian, Tristan, Lily, and Anna Villigan; Phillip Aragon; Austin, Elena, Lincoln, Penny, and Elliot Ricca; and Elizabeth Ricca. Their lives were deeply enriched by his presence, and his memory will forever live on in their hearts

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Joe Garcia; mother, Pauline Aragon Yambra; and sister, Karen Garcia Ricca, who each played a significant role in his journey through life.

Visitation will take place on July 24, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Forest Lawn - Cypress - Hope Chapel, located at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA. The funeral service will follow on July 25, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM at Forest Lawn - Cypress - Patriots Chapel, at the same address, a lunch will be severed following service.

Monday, July 28 at 1:40 PM Burial will be held at: Riverside National Cemetery Office Hours: Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 Address: 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518Phone: (951)653-8417 (tel:(951)653-8417