Arturo M. Garza

Arturo M. Garza, 99, was called home on Monday, June 16, 2025. He was born on December 10, 1925, in Rio Grande City, Texas, to Simon and Jesusa B. Garza. He is survived by his children Arturo Javier Garza, Melba Ileana Garza, and Melissa Garza Reyna; his grandchildren Omar Alaniz, Laura Sierra (Armando), Teresa Alaniz, Ariana Reyna Acosta (Mario), Victoria Reyna Varville (Colin), Claudia Alaniz, Gabriella Reyna, Samuel Garza, and Eliana Garza; and great-grandchildren Ava Alaniz, Oliver Alaniz, and Ruby Mireya Acosta. He is also survived by his brother, Simon Garza Jr., along with many beloved nieces and nephews. Arturo was preceded in death by his loving wife, Imelda “Jimmie” Garza; sons-in-law Ruben Reyna and Jesus “Jr.” Solis; parents Simon and Jesusa B. Garza; and brothers Arnoldo, Armando, Alfredo and Adalberto. At just 18 years old, Arturo was called to serve his country in the United States Army during World War II. He enlisted on March 27, 1944, and served in the Southern Philippines campaign, a pivotal part of the Pacific theater. For his service, Arturo received numerous honors, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, and two Overseas Service Bars. He was also recognized as a Carbine Marksman. Arturo received an honorable discharge on June 8, 1946, having served with courage and distinction. After the war, Arturo returned home and began a career as a welder. In the 1950s, he founded General Welding Service and contributed to major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Falcon Dam—a landmark achievement dedicated by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Mexican President Adolfo Ruiz Cortines in 1953. That same year, he married the love of his life, Imelda “Jimmie” Alvarez. Together they built a family, raising three children: Arturo Javier, Melba Ileana, and Melissa Yvonne. In the mid-1960s, Arturo joined Mo-Vac, where he worked for several decades constructing tankers. Known for his dedication and craftsmanship, he remained with the company until his retirement in 1992. Later, he returned to work locally in order to remain close to Jimmie as she faced illness, retiring fully in 1997 to care for her in their final years together. Above all, Arturo was a man of deep faith. His love for God guided his life, and while he was proud of his military service, his greatest pride was in his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him for his wisdom, humor, charm, and servant’s heart. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who continue to embody the values he cherished: hard work, humility, service, and perseverance. Arturo’s life is a testament to the quiet strength of dedication—both to country and to family—and to the enduring power of love.

Rio Grande City - Arturo M. Garza, 99, died Monday, June 16, 2025, at Starr County Memorial Hospital in Rio Grande City, Texas. Funeral arrangements will be under the direction of Sanchez Funeral Home in Rio Grande City, TX.