James Quintana Garcia

James Garcia of Sierra Madre, passed away Saturday, November 14, 2015, due to complications from Parkinson's Disease. Jim was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing. Born on August 28, 1922, in Arcadia, CA Jim grew up in San Gabriel. Jim was one of eight children, and lived most of his adult life in Sierra Madre, CA. In 1942, Jim answered the call of his country, and went into the U.S. Army - where he served in an anti-aircraft battery. On June 6, 1944, Jim was among those brave men to hit the beaches in Normandy, France, and was actually in the second wave at Omaha Beach. Jim went on to serve in several major battles in Europe, and after the war in Nuremberg, Germany, for which he was awarded five (5) Bronze stars, as well as various other medals. Jim was honorably discharged in December 1945, and – shortly after his return home -- met Esther Reyes. Jim and Esther remained married for 68 years, until Jim's passing.
Jim worked for Lee & Daniel as an ironworker for 30 years. After retiring, Jim continued to remain active and had a successful landscaping business throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Jim also remained dedicated to serving his country, and was active member of VFW Post 3208 and The American Legion. He enjoyed socializing with family and friends, music and good food.
Jim is survived by his wife Esther, son Stephen James, and daughter Elizabeth Garcia Kelchner, both of Sierra Madre; one grandson Brandon Scott Kelchner, sister, Connie Acevedo; sister-in-law, Edwina L. Garcia, and many nieces and nephews.
A mass for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 28, 2015 at St. Rita Parish, Sierra Madre with Father Richard Krekelberg, officiating. Graveside service will follow immediately at Pioneer Cemetery in Sierra Madre, and a reception will conclude the remembrance gathering at the Thomas O'Malley Hall at St. Rita.
Arrangements are by Douglas & Zook in Monrovia, CA. Contributions may be made to The National Parkinson Foundation, www.parkinson.org.