Larry J Garza

Larry Joseph Garza, born April 17, 1964, a life-long resident of Albuquerque, died of complications from bladder cancer on July 12, 2019, at the age of 55. Larry is survived by his father Erasmo, wife Cherie, son David, step children Maria, Tyler and Anastasia, siblings Daniel, Christine, and James and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, two grand-nephews and two grand-daughters. He is predeceased by his mother Martha and his brother Henry. Larry attended Queen of Heaven Catholic School, Del Norte High School, the University of New Mexico and the University of Phoenix. He worked many years at both UPS and PNM creating life-long friends along the way. His friends, Anthony Smith, Amy Gonzales and John Robertson and Al Goldberger have been more like siblings. Larry graduated from Queen of Heaven Catholic School in 1978, Del Norte High School in 1982. He graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in Economics and Political Science. He received his MBA from University of Phoenix. On August 18, 2004, he welcomed his beloved son David, the joy of his life. On May 8, 2015, Larry met Cherie Masitti, the love of his life. They were married on February 10, 2018 in a beautiful ceremony celebrated with family and friends. Cherie came complete with daughters, Masha and Nastya and son, Tyler, as well as "Lizzie" and "Hershey." Larry didn't think he was a "dog kind of guy," but soon found that he was completely enamored with "his" Hershey Dog. He would sing to her, they would cuddle together on the couch, and were inseparable during Larry's illness (except the many times he was hospitalized). Larry loved to gather his family and friends for celebrations and events. He was a life-long supporter of the Lobos and hosted amazing tailgate parties for more than 25 years. Larry was an avid golfer who shared his love of the game with his son David, personally coaching him and supporting him as his biggest fan. Despite his battle with cancer, Larry found the energy to assist David's middle and high school golf teams, attend his golf tournaments, and take him out to practice on a very regular basis. Once he was unable to go in person, he and David would talk for hours going over David's games, hole by hole. It was a beautiful thing to watch. Larry loved to get away as often as he could to do anything that involved the outdoors. He was no stranger to the quality waters in Northern New Mexico. He loved fly fishing, lake fishing—all kinds of fishing. When he heard about a particularly good weekend his cousins Mac and Liz had at Elephant Butte, in fact, he decided that not only would they be heading down there (just two weeks ago), but he wanted to move down there after David graduated from high school. He loved to hunt with his friends, brothers and just about anyone who would go with him! Surely, he is now enjoying the best golfing, fishing and hunting that could ever be imagined. He will be deeply missed. Rosary is scheduled for 7 pm on Wednesday, July 24th and the Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am on Thursday, July 25th at Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Donations to the American Cancer Society are suggested in lieu of flowers. Arrangements entrusted to: Riverside Funeral Home of Albuquerque 225 San Mateo Blvd. NE (505) 764-9663