Kevin Lawrence Garcia

Kevin Lawrence Garcia passed away October 16, 2023. Kevin was born in Ceres, California to parents Manuel and Pat Garcia. Along with their second child, Karri, the family settled in Soquel, California. Kevin attended local schools, graduating from High School in 1981. He was an active boy, who enjoyed riding his bike, playing with friends and tinkering with his dad's tools. He joined the Cabrillo 4-H club, always enjoying the Santa Cruz County Fairs.

After school he began working in construction. He raced ATV"s and with family and friends help he built a street stock car he raced at the Watsonville Speedway for 3 years. He moved to Florida, married and fathered a son, Leland Colby Garcia.

The family moved to Ohio, where he continued to work in construction, and also became a crew member for Todd Kane, who raced Sprint cars.

Later he returned to California and began construction work and fathered a second son, Cody Bryan Garcia in 2004.

His interest in race cars continued but health issues interfered. He survived bladder cancer in 2015 but endured 3 surgeries over the next 7 years for other problems. He was later diagnosed with COPD, Acute Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure. He also dealt with Bi-Polar disease and struggles with addiction.

He was a member of Green Valley Church and attended the Men's Bible Study group when possible. Kevin is survived by his two sons, Leland and Cody; his mom, Pat Garcia; his sister, Karri Mc Millen; aunt, Gerry Rodman; 3 nieces; 1 nephew, and many cousins.

A memorial service will be held on January 20, 2024 at the Watsonville Women's Club

12 Brennan St. Watsonville. His favorite lunch will be served at noon and the service to follow.

Published in The Pajaronian · January 9, 2024