SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 535
In Memory
of
Eligio de la Garza
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of Eligio "Kika" de la Garza, who died
March 13, 2017, at the age of 89; and
WHEREAS, Kika de la Garza served the people of the Rio
Grande Valley and the United States with distinction over the
course of a long and distinguished career in public service,
during which he continually stood up for the rights of veterans
and minorities throughout the country; and
WHEREAS, Born September 22, 1927, he grew up in Mission and
served in the military during World War II and the Korean War
before earning a law degree from Saint Mary's University; he
began his career in public service at the age of 24 when he was
elected to the first of six consecutive terms in the Texas House
of Representatives; and
WHEREAS, He was elected to the United States House of
Representatives in 1965, and he served for 32 years; over the
course of his accomplished legislative career, he focused on
addressing such important issues as free trade agreements, water
quality, and English language instruction for preschool children;
he was a founding member and chairman of the Congressional Hispanic
Caucus; and
WHEREAS, He and his beloved wife, Lucille, enjoyed 63 years
of marriage together, and his children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchild were a source of much pride and joy to him; and
WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and determination, he
gave unselfishly to others, and his wise counsel and commitment
to public service will not be forgotten by his family and
countless friends; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Eligio "Kika" de la Garza; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas
Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in
memory of Kika de la Garza.
Hinojosa
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on March 29, 2017, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate