Kristen M. Garza

Kristen M. Garza, 54, of Rockford, IL passed away Friday, January 1, 2021. She was born on April 14, 1966 in Pontiac, MI the daughter to Carl and Dorothy Pfalzgraf. Kristen graduated from Auburn High School in 1984 and went on to attend Rockford College. She married Oscar Garza II on October 27, 1989. Kristen was a woman of God and involved in her church, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, serving as an acolyte and reader of scripture. She enjoyed bird watching and was a huge animal lover; even as a child, always ready to take in a stray. Kristen was also an avid gardener and lovingly
tended to a garden dedicated to her mother and a great-nephew situated on the church
grounds. Kristen had an infectious laugh and could light up a room. Her positive attitude was notable, always finding the good in life. Kristen had remarkable strength and drive, no matter what she faced...even through an eight-year battle with cancer taughtened her!
Above all, Kristen loved being a Mom and Grandmother. Her three Granddaughters brought pure joy to her. Kristen will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Kristen is survived by her children, Oscar Garza III, Karlah (Nick Petrovic) Garza, Olivia (Angel Esparza) Garza, Michael Garza and grandchildren, Alvia Petrovic, Amelia Petrovic and Celine Esparza. She is also survived by her father, Carl Pfalzgraf and siblings, Tammy (David) Hooks, Jeffrey (Lisa) Pfalzgraf, Carla (Dion) Beyer along with father-in-law, Oscar Garza, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by her mother, Dorothy Pfalzgraf; husband, Oscar.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ferre and his staff at Mayo Clinic and Heartland Hospice, for their care and compassion. A special thanks to hospice nurse, Korin.

A walk-through visitation will be held Friday, January 15, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at
Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. Masks and social distancing are required. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com