Posted on 05/09/2025

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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and husband, Alfonso Garcia, on April 28th, 2025, in his home in Elk Grove, California. Born on January 31, 1942, in Woodland, California, he spent his formative years in Bryte, California, now part of West Sacramento. He passed peacefully in his sleep, embraced by the comfort of his loving wife Sara, and their cherished cat, Whiskers, by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer that returned. Growing up in Bryte, Alfonso was a natural athlete, leaving his mark on the sports fields of James Marshall High School and Sacramento City College, where he proudly earned letters in track, football, and basketball. He carried this passion for an active life throughout his years. For 42 dedicated years, Alfonso faithfully served the community of Bryte as a letter carrier for the United States Post Office. It was on his familiar route that fate intervened, and he met Sara, the woman who would become the love of his life. Their connection blossomed into a beautiful partnership that spanned over three decades. Sara was truly his angel on earth, providing unwavering care, comfort, and boundless love, especially throughout his illness. Her presence was a gift that undoubtedly enriched and extended his life. Earlier in life, Alfonso was married to his high school sweetheart, Darlene Garcia, and together they raised two children, Jesse (who sadly predeceased him in 1988) and Timothy Garcia. When he married Sara, Alfonso embraced her family with open arms, instantly becoming a loving step-father to Adam, Andrea, and Amanda Vaquero, and a doting grandfather to Petra and her siblings and cousins. He was incredibly fortunate to be welcomed as one of their own, cherishing the love and connection they shared. Alfonso was a man of many quiet passions. An avid reader, he possessed a curious mind and a thirst for knowledge. He also found immense joy in the simple act of caring for the wildlife around him, with a particular fondness for the neighborhood cats he often fed and looked after. Above all, Alfonso was known for his unwavering positivity and his remarkable ability to make everyone around him feel special and capable. He had a gift for instilling confidence and encouraging loved ones to pursue their dreams. His favorite way to unwind was watching his beloved San Francisco Giants, Oakland Raiders, and Sacramento Kings, with Whiskers nestled on his lap and Sara by his side. Family was the cornerstone of Alfonso's life. He possessed a remarkable memory for details about each family member, never forgetting a birthday or a special occasion. He had a huge heart, overflowing with generosity and love for all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Sara; his son, Tim (Sarah) ; his stepchildren, Adam (Letty), Andrea (Jorge) and Amanda (Rob); his grandchildren, Petra (His #1)and her siblings and cousins and Alexa who he named "Queen" who would always bring him his favorite flowers (Carnations); his younger brother, Jesse (Carole); his nieces and nephews Trina (Michael) Anthony (Dawn), Leanne (John) and Mike ( Marisela); and numerous extended family. He was preceded in death by his son, Jesse (1966-1988); his sister, Carmen (whose daughter Monica also predeceased him); and his brother, Reuben (whose son Reuben also predeceased him). His positive spirit, loving nature, and generous heart, along with his strength in the face of adversity, will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew him. A funeral service will be held at River Cities Funeral Chapel, Thursday May 8th, 2025 at 10:00am, doors open from 9:00am. A private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that those who wish to honor his memory consider a donation to a local animal rescue organization, reflecting his love for animals.