The late Americo Garza was truly an admirable man. If you were lucky enough to meet Americo, you would quickly see why so many people admired him. He was a man of great integrity and character, exuding warmth, friendliness and care. His passion for life was evident in everything he did. He was always willing to help others and make them feel comfortable and included. It was clear that he genuinely cared about people and making the world a better place.

I knew that he loved his family, too, and cherished his family life. The vivid example was the enormous smile on his face (and eyes wide open) when he talked to me about his grandson, Patrick Nanson. And he would talk about him as if it were the first time you heard about Patrick – a Navy Seal – which brought forth great pride for Americo.

It was only later that I learned that this soft-spoken man was an engineer for Public Works and a board member for the Retired Los Angeles City Employees Association, Inc. (RLACEI); that he was the former co-founder and president of the Los Angeles City Employees Chicano Association (LACECA); and the co-founder of national Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. Americo’s accomplishments are the stuff of legend. But these accomplishments, as outstanding as they are, were merely reflections of Americo’s remarkable character. Americo’s life was an example of what it means to be truly diverse, equitable and inclusive. He set a positive tone that inspired others through his work, not just with words but also by being someone who brought people from all walks of life together in common cause for progress.

It has been an honor to know Americo over the years, and I will continue to cherish those experiences. A selfless champion for others, he touched countless lives with his kindness and gratitude – never failing to put others before himself in every endeavor, no matter how large or small it might have been! He will be remembered as one who made history by breaking barriers along racial lines long sealed off from society’s gaze; and showing us all that equity can exist even if some remain skeptical about its possibility elsewhere.

May his light shine strong in eternity. Rest in Peace.

-Robert Lariós, President & CEO at the Employees Club of California

(See a published article about Americo here: https://bit.ly/3z1qQPv)

Dear Garza Family -

We are so sorry for your loss but hang on to your memories - which there are many - for strength and peace. We have so many wonderful memories of your parents and the times we shared over the many years - we will treasure those always!

Petra, Christopher & John