Burt Garcia Sr.'s Obituary
Burt Garcia Sr., a prominent man of 94 years, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2024 at his home in Waipahu, Hawaii, surrounded by loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy that spans generations.
Born in Barangay Salvacion, Rosales, Pangasinan, Philippines on March 27, 1929, to the late Adriano and Genoveva Garcia, Burt was a man of many talents. His knowledge and expertise extended far and wide. As a lawyer and then later a Chief of Police in the Philippines, Burt served his community with dedication and honor. His commitment to justice and order was unwavering. While serving his duty as a Chief of Police, he encountered numerous incidents including being shot at. For Burt’s safety and his family of 6 at that time, his late father, Adriano Estonillo Garcia, ordered Burt to come to Hawaii to seek better opportunities. He worked at Bank of Hawaii in Honolulu, Queen's Medical Center in Honolulu, and University of Hawaii at Manoa as a Security Officer. Burt was determined to bring his family abroad and worked overtime for one year. In April 1967, he fulfilled his goal. Three sons were born later.
Burt’s hard work and determination led him to become a top-selling Insurance Agent and was inducted in the Million-Dollar Roundtable in Hawaii which led him to travel and attend conferences within the USA to include Bahamas. He was employed with John Hancock Life Insurance, Woodmen Life Insurance, Philadelphia Life Insurance, and Hawaiian Life Insurance. After his insurance career, Burt and his lovely wife, Elisea, founded the Gold Center of Hawaii in which they were able to sell top of the line jewelries at direct wholesale prices. Due to their successful in jewelry business, they traveled numerous times to the neighbor islands to meet the demands of their clients. Aside from selling jewelries, they also sold Saladmaster.
While pursuing his career, Burt was the Founder and President of the United Pangasinan of Hawaii and the Rosalenians & Associates of Hawaii. Both organizations are still active. Burt was also involved in school PTAs where his children attended, lastly the Office of Election. He volunteered in assisting immigrants, which include petitioning and getting their USA citizenship. He was also a Notary Public Commissioner.
During his retirement years, Burt was the primary driver and babysitter for some of his grandchildren. His blue house stood as a testament to his love for the color, a hue that reflected both his calm demeanor and his affinity for the vast ocean that surrounded his island home.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Burt was an avid traveler. He explored the world, venturing to places like the Philippines, Macao, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bahamas, Canada, Laredo (Mexico), Texas, Washington State, California, Oregon, Nebraska, and the vibrant lights of Las Vegas. Each journey enriched his spirit and broadened his horizons.
Family was at the heart of Burt’s life. His beloved wife, Elisea, shared decades of memories with him. Together, they raised nine children, fostering a close-knit family that would continue to grow. Burt took immense pride in his 27 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, celebrating their achievements as if they were his own. Survived by his children: Heidi (Elmer), Marlon (Edith), Leilani (John), Halili (Clayton), Burt Jr. (Melochi), Edgar (Sheila), Alexander (Gloria), George (Hyunjoo), and Tyson. Siblings: Josephine Marcos and Adelaida (Elmore) Canlas.
On Thursday, February 15, 2024, Burt Garcia, Sr. departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and wisdom. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
May he rest in peace, surrounded by the blue skies he cherished and the love of his family. Wake Services will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 5:00pm-8:00pm at the Valley of the Temples, Main Chapel. Burial Services will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, 10:00am at the Valley of the Temples, Main Chapel. Burial to follow at 1:00pm.
What’s your fondest memory of Burt?
What’s a lesson you learned from Burt?
Share a story where Burt's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Burt you’ll never forget.
How did Burt make you smile?
