Christopher Nelson Garces

In loving memory of Chris Garces, whose life was a rich tapestry of relationships and memories, we gather to celebrate the profound impact he had on the hearts of so many. Chris passed away, leaving behind his devoted mother, Paulette Garces, and cherished siblings: his sisters Christina Medina, Charity Garces, and Chandra Mejia, along with beloved older brother, Chany GarcesChris's legacy extends beyond his immediate family; held a special place in the hearts of his, Kathy DeFord, and an extended that included his auntvette Nevarez and uncle Dominic DeFord. He adored his nieces and nephews—Evalina Krüger, Damian Howard, Connor Mejia, and Davina Howard—each a testament to loving bonds he nurtured. His familial connections stretched across the United States, with numerous cousins such as Alex Nevarez, Derek DeFord, David DeFord, Tonya Turner, and Sam Nevarez, as well as great aunts and uncles, all reflecting the vibrant heritage he embraced, including ties to Cuba, his father's homeland.

Beyond the bounds of family Chris cultivated friendships that transcended state lines, fostering a community of companions throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. He was a loyal friend to many, sharing joyous moments playing poker and engaging in trivia games with both close acquaintances and virtual companions.

In spirit, Chris is reunited with his beloved Nana Marylyn, who served as his anchor during life's storms, alongside his grandfather, Uncle Peter, and many other relatives and friends who left this world too soon. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him; we will love and miss you dearly, Christopher. May you rest in peace, forever enveloped in joy and love.

From a young age, Chris exhibited a passion for entertaining, often drawing the spotlight to himself. At around three years old, he fell under the spell of Michael Jackson’s "Thriller," diligently studying the legendary performances. With a black pleather jacket, he gathered neighborhood friends and transformed the front porch into a stage, flawlessly executing the routines for an audience that couldn't help but be captivated, stopping only to reprove distractions with a stern face and a hand on his hip.

In his early teens, Chris frequented the Aloha Skate Rink, creatively collaborating with friends like Romeo to choreograph dance routines that led them to enter breakdancing contests, where they secured a few victories. Chris often commandeered his family's camcorder to capture their practices, relentlessly focused on honing their skills.

His creativity extended into the culinary realm during his brief time working at Jerseys Bar & Grill, where he delighted in crafting cheesesteaks and pizzas, reveling in the joy of watching others enjoy the flavors he introduced with his own little twists.

Life was not without its trials, even from a young age. During a spirited jump rope contest in PE class, Chris, ever the showman, attempted a daring backflip to "save the day." However, as fate would have it, he tangled in midair and landed hard on his left elbow, breaking and dislocating it—never one to take the easy way out. While doctors tended to his injury, his determined spirit was already analyzing how to improve his landing technique, always eager to push himself further.

Chris’s resilience became even more pronounced in the face of adversity. On February 13, just days shy of his sixteenth birthday, he survived a harrowing attack that left him with life-threatening injuries. After being stabbed in the heart and lung and sustaining multiple slashes, Chris faced crucial moments where he was coded several times before receiving expert medical care. A gifted trauma surgeon, Dr. Cahill, worked tirelessly to keep him alive, while Dr. Abramson repaired his heart in an arduous twelve-hour operation. Remarkably, just ten days later, Chris returned home, blessed with 21 additional years that he filled with laughter, kindness, and unforgettable memories—a true testament to his indomitable spirit, despite the shadows that lingered from that fateful night.

As we reminisce and honor Chris Garces, we remember a vibrant soul whose legacy is interwoven with love, laughter, and resilience. His life, though filled with challenges, radiated joy and connection, inspiring all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory forever be a source of comfort and strength.