Iker Garcia

Iker A. Garcia, age 4 months, died Friday morning, October 14, at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospitals in Minneapolis.


Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, October 21, at Church of St. Mary in Willmar, Minnesota. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are with Peterson Brothers Funeral Home in Willmar, MN. (www.petersonbrothers.com)


Iker Alexander Garcia was granted his angel wings on October 14, 2016 following nearly 5 months in the NICU. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that Iker had touched in some small way throughout his short, yet very memorable life.


Iker's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gentle smile could melt the hearts of those around him and though he never spoke a word, his voice and thoughts could always be heard.


Although Iker appeared frail, he possessed strength, perseverance, and an ability to overcome incredible odds. With his courage he led is to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He could spend hours rocking in his favorite chair while cuddling close to those he loved so much. He enjoyed music that his dad sang to him and listening to stories his mom read to him while rocking him to sleep. Sleeping in his mom's arms was one of the few places he could always sleep peacefully through the night.


With Iker's passing we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. We will miss him everyday, especially his winning smile. He will forever remain in our hearts. Through his teaching about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be his parents.


Iker leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced his quality of life. Iker's love extends to all his wonderful nurses, especially Gracie and Kristen K. There is a special place in our hearts for his primary nurses. Because of their continual dedication, love and support, Iker was able to survive some of the toughest medical challenges. He will be dearly missed by all his special caregivers at the Masonic Children Hospital NICU. All of these special people, too numerous to mention, provided Iker love and dignity in his short life and also in his death.


Iker is survived by his loving parents, Luis and Juana Garcia of Willmar; paternal grandparents, Baltazar and Elizabeth Garcia of Mexico; maternal grandparents, Jesus Salazar and Maria DeLaluz Uvalle of Willmar; and other relatives and friends.


He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents.

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