|
GARZA, DDS, Richard R. Richard R. Garza DDS (born April 4, 1947) passed away peacefully at home November 14, 2013. Richard received his degree from UT Dental School Houston and enjoyed a successful private practice in Austin, TX. After 24 years of private practice, his bold adventurous spirit and abundant generosity, led him to create what was to become his life long passion, Christinas Smile Inc, a non-profit organization serving under-privileged children across the country. Known for his humor, playful personality, quick wit, and loyal friendships, Richard gave everyone a reason to smile. His love of golf offered relaxation from his fast-paced lifestyle. He is survived by his mother, Ramona Figueroa Garza; beloved wife and best friend, Diane Garza; children, Richard Garza Jr., Amy Proffer, Patricia Riddle and Mark Garza; 7 grandchildren; siblings Ramon Garza, Reynaldo Garza, Rosario Cartwright, Rolando Garza, Ramona Garcia; his former wife, Lucila and many dear friends. At Richard's request, there will be a private memorial. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Christina's Smile Inc. Published in Austin American-Statesman from Nov. 17 to Nov. 18, 2013
|
Casimiro (Casey) Garza, Jr (1965)
Richard and i connected during the 4th grade, coming over to us from Schallert. His mom was also a teacher at Salazar Elementary School. He was bright and a top all around athlete. One thing I remember, is that he was very competitive, as I and we were always trying to best the other in our school work. When he first moved to Salazar his Spanish was a little weak, and remember him being given a hard time for only speaking English....on the playground, you were spanked if you spoke Spanish in class. But like everything else, he took to it pretty fast and mastered it in no time.
My fondest memories of him are on the ball field, playing against each other in Little League, him with City Grocery and Market and myself with the Jaycees, and later together on the All-Star teams.
I was able to connect with him on the phone, a few months before his passing and he was still the same, he never changed.
He is missed by all, great great guy, as well as his family....we were both Garza, but brothers from a different mother.
Casimiro (Casey) Garza, Jr (1965)
I forgot this funny story to tell about Richard, when he ran for class President as a Senior. He put up all of these posters with this on them: "SEX!! NOW THAT I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION, VOTE FOR RICHARD GARZA CLASS PRESIDENT"....that mean Mr John Alebis and Bill Morris, nixed that plan pretty quick.....by the way, he won!
Casimiro (Casey) Garza, Jr (1965)
Here's a picture of Richard in high school: