[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 153 (Monday, September 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1260]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING VICENTE V. GARZA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 25, 2017

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of 
Vicente V. Garza, of Laredo, Texas.
  Vicente V. Garza was born on August 5th, 1931 to Vicente Garza, Sr. 
and Julieta V. Garza in Laredo, Texas. He graduated with honors from 
St. Augustine High School and then from St. Edwards University in 1951 
with a degree in Business Administration. He would soon form many 
business relationships in Laredo and manage several retail stores and 
hotels throughout the area. Eventually, through hard work and 
dedication, he founded El Rio Department Store and contributed to the 
development of the Riverdrive Mall in Laredo, Texas.
  A devoted Catholic and parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church, 
Vicente contributed to the Laredo Catholic Consolidation Fund. His film 
belief in the educational system led him to serve on the Laredo 
Community College Education Foundation Board, the Mary Help of 
Christians School Advisory Board, and sponsor various scholarship 
programs. Mr. Garza had been named Laredo Morning Times Man of the Year 
for his efforts.
  Mr. Garza was successful both in business and in serving the 
community. He understood the importance of giving back to others. That 
is why he was committed to improving the education system. He wanted to 
ensure that those pursuing their education would have the opportunity 
to accomplish their ambitions. Mr. Garza's life and work serve as an 
example to us all.
  Vicente is survived by his wife Irma, his daughter Irma P. Trautmann 
(Robert), siblings Ricardo Garza (Alma), Eduardo Garza, Violeta 
Zertuche (Ramon), Virginia Shuey (Rick), Juanita Fontaine, Julieta 
Averitt, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and 
nephews.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize 
Vicente V. Garza.

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