After 36 years of a wonderful marriage Robert passed away in the arms of his loving family on Tuesday, August 23, 2011. A private family ceremony was held at Robert’s home.

Robert was born December 18, 1946 in Bryan, Texas to Angelo Garza and Angeline Abalos. Robert spent his childhood years in Chicago, Ill., before returning to Bryan as a teenager. He attended Steven F. Austin High School before joining the U.S. Navy.

Robert obtained an associate’s degree in science and liberal arts that lead to a 27-year career as a Registered Respiratory Therapist. Robert initially practiced in the NICU at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Mich., and then managed their hyperbaric chamber. Robert managed patient care with warmth, compassion and dedication to all his patients.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother, father and stepbrother.

He is survived by his wife, Sue; his daughters and their husbands, Christine Rodriguez, Teresa and Robert Martinez, Angela and Jason Ihrig, and Catherine Garza; his dearly loved grandchildren, Robert, Summer, Samantha, Anthony, Gabrielle, Sophia, Edward and Breanna; and great-grandchild Gabriel. He is also survived by his stepfather, Salvador Gomez; and his brother, sisters and brother-in-law, Mary Cheeseman, Richard Gomez, Nancy and Tim Ermert.

Robert’s love extended far beyond family and patients.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the following organizations, Brazos Valley Hospice and Bryan United Pentecostal Church for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to one of these organizations.