Ann A. Garza

Ann A. Garza, 75, of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2014. She was born on August 19, 1938 in Milwaukee, WI; the daughter of Harold and Lillian (Howe) Knaus, Sr. Ann married Oscar Garza on October 27, 1957. She received her Bachelor's of Arts in Education from Rockford College. Ann was a devoted member of the Rockford School Board as she dedicated several years to children with special needs in Rockford Public Schools. She was a selfless person, always putting the needs of others first and was always generous through charitable contributions. She cherished her family and her children as she was always their biggest fan and supporter when they were growing up. She adored her grandchildren and loved spending time with them. Ann was a wonderful cook; she was passionate about art, especially, dance, film and pottery. She also had a love for foreign language. She translated many conversations between her husband and friends. She was a history buff and had a special place in her heart for animals. Ann will forever be missed by her family, her friends and all who knew and loved her.
She is lovingly survived by her husband of 56 years, Oscar; daughters, Ann A. (Carl Fields) Peterson, Renata Irving and Diana (Mike) Williams; sons, Oscar A.(Kristen) Garza, Jr., John H. (Stacy Bradley) Garza and Richard A. Garza; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. brothers, John R. Knaus and Harold Knaus, Jr. Predeceased by her parents and brother, LeRoy Knaus.
Private family services to be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel assisted the family. To extend condolences visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com