Felipe Martinez Garza

Felipe Martinez Garza went home to our heavenly father on Jun 20, 2022 at the age of 79. After several months of declining health Felipe passed on peacefully with his beloved wife Juanita, his children and grandchildren by his side.

Felipe was born in San Benito Nuevo Leon Mexico on July 28, 1942 to Pablo and Geronima Garza. He was the eldest son of his 12 siblings, Felipe began helping on the family ranch in San Benito at a young age and as he and his siblings got older the family came to the United States and followed agricultural work which took them to many different states. The Garza family eventually came to the Orosi and Sultana area where he would meet the love of his life Juanita Corona. At the age of 19 he and Juanita were married and called Sultana home, a year later they would have their son who was the first of their four children.

Felipe was well known in the community of Sultana whether it was through his 27 years of employment at George Bros. Packing house or through the time as a musician with the Pizana bros.

He was a reliable hard worker, something that he instilled in all of his children. A loving father and caring person not only to his kids but to many nieces,nephews and his kids friends who were always invited on many weekend trips to the lake, coast, mountains where they were made to feel like part of the family. Adored by his grandchildren and great grandchildren for being the best papa ever who was never too busy to take them for walks to the store or pick them up from school and never minded being silly to put a smile on their face. He was known and loved for his sense of humor for he was always quick with a joke or a funny story.

Felipe is survived by his Wife Juanita Garza, Sons Albert Garza, Nathaniel and Wife Cristina Garza, Daughters Lisa Garza and Isabel (Garza)Southern and husband James Southern. 16 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Felipe will forever be in the hearts of those who knew him. A Viewing will be held for Felipe at Dopkins Funeral Chapel in Dinuba on Thursday, June 30 2022 at 4:30 pm to 7 p.m. Funeral Services will be on Friday July 1 at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. followed by burial at Smith Mountain Cemetery.