Robert "Bob" Garza, Jr., age 80, of Merrillville, IN passed away on Friday, June 24, 2022.

Bob was born on March 7, 1942 in Edinburg, TX to the late Robert Sr. and Aurora (nee Gonzales) Garza.  He was a caster operator in Management at Bethlehem Steel.  Bob met the love of his life, Linda Marie (nee Navarro), at Pepe's Restaurant and married on June 3, 1988. They spent 34 wonderful and loving years together.  Bob was a proud Air Force Veteran.

Bob was a member of the American Legion Post 485 and hung out at the Mutualista Club often.  His passion was being outdoors.  Bob was always on his tractor, proudly caring for his property with gardening and yardwork.  He could be found glued to the T.V. watching his beloved Chicago White Sox and Bears.  Bob also enjoyed fishing, exploring ethnic cuisine, and visiting different restaurants.  Bob and Linda treasured their weekly dinner and movie dates.  They enjoyed dancing and listening to music together.   Bob's favorite musicians were Little Joe and Willie Nelson.  Bob's greatest pride was his family.  He adored his wife, children, and grandchildren.  Bob was a beloved husband, devoted father, adoring grandfather and great-grandfather, dear brother, uncle, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda; children: Angelica Noel (Salvador Cuellar) Garza, Veronica (Jamie) Langford, Yvonne (Mike) Fortner, and Greg (Kristy) Varella; grandchildren: Arianna Noel, Alex, Tori, Ashleigh, Holly, Steven, Karolina, Liliana, and Alexandria; 10 great-grandchildren: Siblings Olga Garza, Alfa Garza, and Louie (Yolanda) Garza; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents: Robert Sr. and Aurora and brothers: Rene and Lee Garza.

Family and friends may gather at Rees Funeral Homes (600 W Old Ridge Rd, Hobart) on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 from 2:00-8:00 P.M.  A time of reflection will take place at 6:00 P.M.  A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. with Chaplain Henry Leader officiating.  A private Committal Service will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are preferred to the Garza Family.