Steve Garcia

Steve B. Garcia, 66, the WORLD’S BEST FLY FISHERMAN and longtime resident of Chama NM passed away peacefully on Monday, November 22nd with his family by his side. Born on March 8th, 1955 in Santa Fe NM to Mother Mary Alice Padilla and Father Manuel Antonio Garcia. He was preceded in death by his parents; Brothers Anthony and Frank Garcia; Nephews John and Manuel Romero.

Steve attended Santa Fe High School and later attended Eastern New Mexico University where he pursued a degree in Architecture and Design. He worked several summers at Los Alamos National Laboratory but transitioned into State Government until he retired.

An avid outdoorsman, hunter, and master fly angler, he loved the mountains and could always be found on one of his favorite streams, rivers, or lakes in Northern New Mexico or Southern Colorado with his trusty blue healer “Kodi” by his side. He loved automobiles and always had the nicest rides including a Chevrolet Chevelle, Z28 Camaro, and several nice trucks. He always dressed to impress from head to toe. He loved jamming out to favorite rock and roll bands such as Toto, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Eagles, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Eric Clapton to name a few. He also loved playing basketball and watching his beloved Boston Red Sox. He spent a portion of his life living in Pecos, NM where he enjoyed working on his home and breeding blue healer puppies. He later purchased a home in Chama, NM where he resided until he passed. He loved teaching the art of fly fishing to family, friends, and even strangers. He made and kept many great fishing buddies along the way. It’s been said that “If Steve can’t catch a fish in this river, then there is no fish in here,” and also “Steve could catch a fish out of a bucket of water.” He also loved hunting turkey and big game but later transitioned to wildlife photography which he was passionate about. He was a loving Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle and Friend. He loved his Mother dearly as well as all of his Brothers and Sisters, Nieces and Nephews whom he helped raise and care for as well as provide leadership and example to. He made friends everywhere he went, was truly loved and admired and will be greatly missed by so many.

Steve is survived by his Son Carlos Garcia, Wife Jenna and 3 Granddaughters Ilyana, Jordynn, and Payton; Sisters Mayim Ginnel, Pat Romero (Lawrence), Terrie Montoya (Andrew), and Lori Garcia; Brother Dominic Garcia (Miranda); Nieces Alicia Romero (Ken), Mary Garcia, Brittanie Sena (Antonio), Monica, Melanie Torres (Gabe), and Jasmine Garcia; Nephews DJ Garcia, Ernest Cervantes, Joshua Montoya (MJ), and Vincent Montoya (Shelbi); as well as many other relatives, friends, and fishing buddies.

A visitation will take place on Friday, December 3rd, 2021 between 3:00-5:00 at the DeVargas Funeral Home of Espanola.

The family of Steve B. Garcia has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477 www.devargasfuneral.com