Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
AmeriCorps Volunteer Andre Garcia Dies
The AmeriCorps Maple 50 team, which has been working in the Kimball area for the past month, suffered the loss of one of its team members, Andre Garcia.
Jessica Rocha from the Visitors Center reported that Andre had a rapidly progressing medical condition that took his life. It was a non-COVID related viral infection. Reports indicated that he fell ill and was taken to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff and eventually was transferred to Denver.
On Thursday of last week, the South Platte Natural Resource District held a ceremony at Oliver Lake and planted a tree in memory of Andre.
The Observer reached out to the AmeriCorps headquarters, where the press agent Samantha Jo Warfield released this statement:
“We are devastated by the loss of this kind and loving soul who was so passionate about serving. During his time with AmeriCorps NCCC, he made an impact on the lives of so many. He will be missed, deeply.
“Andre passed away on Saturday, Sept. 5, with his parents by his side after experiencing a serious medical emergency. We have worked to support Andre’s family during this time, as well as his fellow AmeriCorps members.
“As an AmeriCorps NCCC member, Andre persevered through a very challenging year of service to make a difference in communities during a time of tremendous need. Upon returning to service, Andre and his team were instrumental in feeding thousands of Iowans during the COVID-19 pandemic through their work with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. Most recently his team has served with the Plains Historical Society in Nebraska, helping to preserve the culture and history related to the settlement and development of the High Plains region, as well as service with the South Platte Natural Resource District.
“Funeral services were held Saturday, in his hometown of Bridgeport, Conn. AmeriCorps NCCC conducted a national stand-down and moment of silence Friday at 2 p.m. Mountain. During that time, teams and staff momentarily paused operations to remember the life and service of Andre Garcia.”
According to his obituary, when Andre passed away, he was surrounded by his parents. In addition to his parents, Andre is survived by four brothers including his twin and one sister and many extended members of his family.