David Garcia

David Garcia, 74, went home to heaven with his beloved pets on Friday, May 21, 2021. He was born August 4, 1946 in Santa Fe to Fedelina and Juan Garcia. He was raised by his grandparents, Antonio and Amalia Encinias in Wagon Mound, NM. David received his Masters Degree in Industrial Arts at Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM. David began his teaching career in Dulce, NM in 1970, where he was also a basketball, track, and football coach. He later moved to Farmington, NM in 1978 were he continued his teaching and coaching career at Koogler Middle School until he retired in 1994. David loved his students, and wherever he went into town he was often approached by them and greeted with a hugs and talk of fond memories they'd had with him in school. David enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. David also took Elia Trango and Sophia Tofoya under his wing and loved them dearly, as well as Becca Olin. He was lovingly known as Papa. David was preceded in death by his wife, Josephine, in 2013. He is survived by his sons Antonio (Kim), Orlando (Camille), and his grandchildren; Jessica, David, Sebastien, and Alia. Imelda Montoya, with whom he happily spent the last four years of his life. Sisters Francis Hagel and Louise (Butchie) Killingsworth. David was also known for his inexhaustible friendliness, always greeting others with a kind smile and open arms. The affection he poured into all things around him can be seen throughout his family, students, and friends. He loved, and was loved, by many and will be greatly missed by all who know and loved him.

A funeral mass will be held June 1, 2021 at 11:00 am at St Mary's Church on 20th st, Farmington, NM.