Robert A. Garcia

Robert A. Garcia, 60, of Topeka, passed away December 17, 2011 at St. Francis Health Center. Robert was born February 4, 1951 in Topeka, the son of Rufino J. and Delores (Gutierrez) Garcia. He graduated from Topeka High School in 1969 and attended the University of Kansas. He graduated from Washburn University on May 17, 2002 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force on May 29, 1971 and was honorably discharged on August 31, 1991 as a Tech Sergeant. After serving in the United States Air Force, he worked at the Kansas Historical Society. Robert loved music and playing his guitar. He traveled all over the world while in the service. He enjoyed traveling with his special friends Teresa, Craig, Mary Lou and Sandy to various art museums and plays in New York. He enjoyed making ceramics, stained glass and painting. He taught stained glass classes and continued to learn and write German. He was member of Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church. Robert is survived by three brothers, Richard E. Garcia, Paul Garcia and Gilbert Garcia, all of Topeka; three sisters, Anna M. Parades, of Kansas City, KS, Stephanie R. Garcia, of Topeka and Secundina Garcia, of Lenexa, KS and his beloved dog, Mitch. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rufino J. Garcia on July 31, 2005 and Delores (Gutierrez) Garcia on October 25, 2006 and a brother, John Michael Garcia on November 20, 2004. Robert will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where a Parish Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. at Kansas Veterans Cemetery in Manhattan with Military Honors provided by the United States Air Force. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Historical Society, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66603. Online condolences may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.