Michael (Mike) John Garcia

Michael John (Mike) Garcia, 63, of Lee County, died Saturday, February 16, 2013 at his residence. Memorial services will be conducted Monday, February 18, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. at Mathews Funeral Home. Rev. Tom Pollock will officiate.

Mike served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era from 1969 - 1971 and was stationed in Germany. He was later employed with Proctor and Gamble as a purchasing agent and retired after 26 years of employment.

Mike loved and was loved by many people. He was the kind of man that would offer a giving hand no matter who needed one, family or friend. He was kind hearted, loving and generous to all. He spent his life with his wife Cathy, and oh what a love they shared. He had a special place in his heart for animals, taking care of any stray that might wander up. Some of Mike's happiest memories are of times spent enjoying his favorite hobbies, golfing, fishing, and socializing with family and his many friends. He was a member of American Legion Post #30 and BPOE Elks #713. He will be missed dearly but will remain forever in our hearts.

Survivors include his wife Cathy Garcia of Lee County, a son David L. Howell Sr. (Tammy) of Lee County, two daughters Joanne Reid Martin of Jacksonville, FL, Pam Ahearn (Brian) of Atlanta, GA, a god child Karen Allen Askew of Lee County, his mother Jean Garcia of Lee County, a sister Anita Garcia of Albany, GA, six grandchildren Dorothy and William Reid of Jacksonville, FL, David L. Howell JR. of Lee County, Ian Martin of Jacksonville, FL, Kaitlin and Hunter Ahearn of Atlanta, GA, and one great grandchild Peyton Farabee of Jacksonville, FL. He was preceded in death by his father John Garcia and a sister Karen Derek.

The family will receive friends following the services at the funeral home.

Those desiring may make memorials in memory of Mike Garcia to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA), P.O. Box 96929, Washington, DC, 20090-6929 or www.aspca.org/donate.