Benjamin passed away peacefully at his home in Alameda, California, on April 14, 2019
He is survived by his loving children George (Rosana), Joseph, Irma (Eric), Ana, and Richard (Terry) and adoring grandchildren Katie, Kim, Elena, Clark, Elizabeth, and Benjamin.
His passing follows that of his dearly loved wife, Irma, in 2016, after 61 years of marriage. Ben cherished his wife and family.
Ben was born in Aguascalientes, Mexico, emigrated to the United States, and served in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. He then served as a civilian at the Alameda Naval Air Station. Ben taught at Laney College, sharing with students his expertise as an expert machinist.
He was a devoted Catholic all through his life. He was a parishioner of St. Barnabas Church for many years, and in his retirement he attended daily mass at the Cathedral of Christ the Light.
Ben loved his native Mexico and adopted United States. He had a passion for history, soccer, and baseball. He was a long-time season ticket holder of his beloved Oakland A’s. His irrepressible gregariousness was a trademark, and resulted in Ben’s friendships with so many people throughout his life, including baseball professionals, a screenwriter, a governor, an archbishop, and many others.
Ben will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Family and friends may visit after 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 2nd with the Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m. at Greer Family Mortuary and Cremation Services, 2694 Blanding Ave., Alameda and attend a Celebration of Benjamin's Life on May 3rd at 9:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of Christ the Light, 2121 Harrison St., Oakland.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Benjamin F. Garcia, please visit our floral store.