Rafael Garza III went into the arms of the Lord on June 29, 2017.
Third, as he was known to family and friends, was born on Dec. 17, 1993 in Sunnyside, Wash. to Ralph Garza and Adelita Rodriguez.
As a child, he lived in Texas and Washington until his family moved to Irrigon in 1998, where he resided until his passing. He graduated from Irrigon High School.
Third was a man with many friends, because he had a heart of gold. He was the kind of man who would go above and beyond to make a person smile. He loved his family with every bit of his soul. They were the most important part of his life. His friends were such an important part of his life as well. So many memories made, we will have stories to tell forever.
His dogs Kilo and Lokz were his sidekicks, and they always knew when it was time to play. He enjoyed fishing and being with his family and friends. He loved to spend time cruising around in his truck to “chilllll” and “going to the store”. The short time we had him in our lives will be cherished. He was the ultimate definition of giving unconditional love. He will be missed by so many, but we know that one day, we will all be together soon in heaven.
He is survived by his parents, Adelita Rodriguez (Francisco Chapa) and Rafael Garza Jr.; grandparents, Diego and Carmen Rodriguez; brothers, Francisco and Jeramiah Chapa; sisters, Julisa Garza and Priscilla Chapa; girlfriend, Katelyn Tolar; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rafael Garza; grandmother, Maria Vicenta Garza; and cousin, Cesar Barriga Garza.
A funeral service was held on Monday, July 3, 2017 at 5 p.m. at Burns Mortuary Chapel in Hermiston.
Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 6, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church in Hermiston.
Burial will follow at Desert Lawn Memorial Cemetery in Irrigon.
Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
