Tribute to Michelle Marie Garcia
On April 4th, 2020, we suffered a tragic loss. One of our angels left us unexpectedly, peacefully, in her sleep.
Michelle Marie Garcia was a ball of fearless energy since she came into this world Aug 26, 1992. Athletic, adventurous, strong as a tank but pretty and delicate as the most beautiful butterfly you have ever seen, and so much more to all of us who loved her and knew her.
As tough as she was physically on the exterior, inside she was a sensitive, fragile and delicate human with a heart of gold. She had a soul with a bottomless need to please others, be it in any way shape or form that was needed or required at a moment’s notice and was happy with just your appreciation.
That heart also had a soft spot for animals, and you might come in second place if you weren’t as cute or helpless as one. Not many people can train cats to do a jump course like a show horse, but Michelle could!
Whether it was on the playground as a child or barely older at just 15-years, she started learning how to navigate and promote products from the family businesses at trade shows, often far away from home.
She simply didn’t have a fear of trying anything or doing anything in front of strangers or live on camera. She didn’t need to practice or do complex rehearsals; she was a natural and we loved that and everything else about her.
Within no time she was a 4’11” powerhouse pitchman (she would prefer that over pitch person or pitch woman!) selling anything from personal training packages to Bondic on camera or hundred thousand-dollar lasers to executives, nothing phased her at all. They didn’t stand a chance with her infectious smile and warm face inviting you over.
That bold quality, to try anything impromptu, obviously created hilarious stories and scenarios that kept all of us in stitches or rolling on the floor in tears, Michelle could laugh at herself as much as we could with her.
Promise us that none of you will forget her ability to light up a room when she entered, to be the catalyst of fun or the first to crack you up when you needed it by having a blonde moment at her expense, all the while laughing at herself just as hard as she made you laugh.
We thank so many of you for reaching out to us and we are sorry you can’t help the rest of our family and friends begin to get closure through a traditional ceremony.
We can tell you that she would find it cool and amazing to know that none of you have forgotten her when you join us to celebrate her life in the near future after this pandemic has subsided.
We won’t let her down and we will be sure to serve “Free Schevocadoo’s” at that celebration of life!
Wall of Memories:
Please share your memories above, they’ll be posted here soon after you press submit.
To our dearest Michelle, May your beautiful soul rest peacefully now. Without you on this earth, many hearts are broken. Please know that you will never be forgotten and all the beautiful memories we have of you will be with us forever. God bless you.
I remember and will never forget that dazzling excitement in her eyes and that 10 foot circle of joy she could put out in the world just by saying hello. Today and everyday I extend my hands and my heart to Michelle's family. Big love is a vibration that will never end or fade. Peace and love. M
I didn't know Michelle for very long, but she was the most bubbly person I had ever met! She offered to help train me just because that was who she was. Her laugh and smile were infectious and was always so positive. I will never forget how she always made me smile!
Memory: My deepest condolences to you and your whole family. I had the pleasure of spending time with Michele at a number of trade shows. She was such a wonderful person. Full of personality and a wonderful sense of humour. She will be sorely missed. God bless her.
Michelle will be greatly missed, but her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit will be remembered forever. May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten. She will remain in our hearts forever.
Beautiful Michelle, Your infectious smile, endless energy and incredibly positive attitude made you one of a kind in this world. I often marvelled at such a young age how you were fearless in your approach to people, and called you "Super Sales Girl" from the time you were around 16 or so. Your smile and warmth was so infectious no-one could resist you. Your untimely passing has left a void that will never be filled. My life, and the lives of so many, is richer for having known you, Michelle. Rest in peace sweet girl. Love, Carol
I want to take a minute to tell you about some of the things I love about you. (Cue, Michelle’s eye-roll... too bad I love you and I’m doing it!!!) I loved how put-together, and collected you looked at all times... whether we were hanging out in the backyard, or going to the gym, or at school, you were never anything less than on-point! I loved that you rocked a smokey eye every single day at our school that had a “no-makeup-allowed” policy, I was so envious your “CARE?” personality. I loved that you and I had the biggest calves out of all the people (not girls, human beings) at school. Thank you for showing me how to be confident about every single part of ourselves. Not only are you gorgeous both inside and out, you’re also an incredibly talented and loving person. I feel SO blessed and lucky that you chose to include me into your life! Until I see you again, I promise I will carry you with me in my heart, and allow all the positive things you’ve taught me over the past 15 years to shine through my actions in memory of you. I love you Michelle. Rest In Peace
Sharing in your sadness as you remember Michelle. I’m so grateful I had the chance to know her, hearing her amazing voice on business line. even few times visiting her. it's unbelievable and so sad missing such a wonderful person. Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs, accept my condolences. God bless her and I wish the God help you stay strong Rob, Belkys and Katya. Matt Manafi
Michelle, to have had you for a niece was the greatest blessing for us. We thank you for the happiness you brought us, we can still feel for your warm smiles, strong hugs and hear your funny jokes. We can see you dancing away in heaven listing to your favorite music. May you fly with magic wings, may your heart be joyful and your days be bathed in light. You’re one of heavens Angels a beautiful shining star!! Always with us until we meet again in heaven to dance with you. We love you enormously. Tio Alex, Tia Iria and your Cousin Marina Frias
Wir sind alle sehr erschüttert über den Tod von Michelle. Es ist unfassbar und traurig. Wir konnten Michelle leider nie persönlich kennenlernen, aber unsere Gedanken sind in dieser schweren Zeit und Trauer bei euch. UND DIE SONNE TRUG TRAUER, VOM HIMMEL FIELEN TRÄNEN, DER WIND SCHWIEG UND DIE TIERE VERSTUMMTEN, DENN ES WAR EIN ENGEL DER IN LIEBE STARB. Familien Pürstner und Papst
Bright, funny, & beautiful are just some of the words used to describe you. Sad & hurt are two more as we reflect on losing you so suddenly. Know that all the family & friends you left behind will always remember you, miss you & pray that you are resting peacefully. We will always keep you in our hearts & love you forever. Aunt Sonia and Uncle Sandy
You were half of me, but your heart was three times bigger than mine. Gone too soon, Rest In Peace My Dear...
Looking at all of the pictures, I am reminded of how much we laughed at Big Pink when Michelle made that now infamous face with the dessert all over her teeth. The entire family laughed so much that night and I was able to capture that moment forever. . Michelle may your energy continue to fill others with joy and laughter. Your amazing soul will shine on and we will cherish you and our memories together forever. Rest In Peace my sweet beautiful cousin.
My favorite thing about Michelle and the thing I will never forget is how much she went out of her way to tell and show me just how much she loved me. From our childhood growing up together, going to sleepaway summer camp in Canada, riding horses, watching Grease and dumb and dumber on VHS tapes over and over, horrible games of monopoly to our partying when both became adults. She seemed to raise me on a pedestal, always telling me how great she thought I was despite me being shy. I never thought I was great. But just being around her made me feel like we were both great. Like we were unstoppable. One of my favorite memories is when I was 10 years old and she used so much makeup on my face and I ended up looking like my abuelita, mima. :') I'm gonna miss her infectious smile and her limitless, unconditional love, but I will always remember her as one of the greatest people I've ever met. RIP Michelle. I miss you so much.
Michelle “Michy” for me was my first experience of being a grandmother. She started walking at eight months old. She would stand up without putting her little hands on the floor. Something very unusual for a baby to do. She inherited those athletic legs from her other grandmother Maria. By two and three years old she would slide down the steps in the townhouse I lived in. One Halloween I made her a Bee costume and she won first prize. Not because of the costume, rather for her smile and how she danced with everyone, so small and precious as she was. I also remember when she left for Canada, I missed her so much. Every time I saw a “churro” vendor here in Miami, I just fell to tears, as I remember she would always say “Abby, churro churro!”. She loved those pastries they sold on the side of the road. Later I flew and visited her in Canada I had never seen snow. I remember we would play in the backyard in that snow where she lived. We had so much fun together. As she grew into a young woman, I taught her how to cook her favorite Cuban dish, “picadillo” and it was just as good if not better than mine. These were just some of beautiful moments with her. There are so many other memories that escape my mind right now, memories I will always hold close to my heart as they will stay with me forever. I only hope when it is my time to rest, may the Lord hold my place right next to her.
I only met Michelle a few times but these tributes and pictures match what i knew - she radiated warmth and positive energy with her smile. I know she was loved! I wish Belkys, Rob, Katya and your family peace and my sincere condolences ❤
Dear Michelle, may the Easter mystery provide comfort to your grieving family and protect and accompany your lovely soul!
Michelle, you brightened up my day every day for the four years we worked together. Your smile was as big as your heart and your hugs were always the best. You made so many people happy with your positive energy and kind soul. I miss you so much 🙁 May you be at peace xxx
Michelle, who we first met as a young teenager, and every time afterwards, was always friendly, engaging and lovely to talk to. Michelle, not only took the time to sit and chat with us “adults” she was genuinely interested in what we had to say. She was truly a beautiful soul. Sending much love and strength to Belkys, Rob and Katya.
I remember Belkys's huge eyes and broad smile when I was introduced to Michelle. That smile represented a lifetime of unconditional parental love. Losing what you had must be painful beyond words. May you stay strong. Our sympathies are with you.
Rob, Belkys & Katya, Thank you for sharing Michelle’s lovely smile and her beautiful spirit with us all! 💕 A beautiful woman that shone from the inside out 💕 All our love to you all ~ The Beswick Family
We shared so many wonderful memories together. As I sit here and reminisce about all the laughs, and a few cries, I think about the wonderful things that make up my dear friend. You were small in stature, but what you lacked in height you made up for in personality. You had personality, oh did you have a personality! And you weren’t afraid to show it to people. To be yourself. That was one of my favourite things about you. You were authentically Michelle and you were fearless. With that came strength, a strength you tried to teach me, but I could never quite perfect. You weren’t afraid of anything or anyone. And you tried your very best to give me some of that strength. With that strength on the outside came a kindness on the inside. You loved fearlessly and passionately. You were never shy to show the people you cared about, just how much you cared about them, and you told them too. Always leaving with one of your gigantic hugs and “love you babes”. You were a people pleaser, always making sure everyone was okay and taken care of. And you always took care of me. You taught me how to not take “crap” from anyone, and you made me a little more confident in myself. I will forever be grateful for knowing you, for being your friend, for who you made me become. You have shaped such a big part of me and I am a better person because you left your mark. I fondly remember in the early days of our friendship spending summers together, cruising around in your blue Volkswagen buggy. Playing music and literally dancing in our seats. Or the time we did Tough Mudder together and laughed our way through the whole thing. Taking absolutely none of it seriously. You threw yourself over every wall better then any other competitor there! I loved that athleticism. I loved working out with you and then eating an entire pizza afterwards (I can hear you laughing at that now). To my beautiful friend, may you rest well. I know you will be by my side through all the big things in my life, just like we talked about so many times together. Love you babes. -Liv xo
Anyone who knew Michelle knew that she was a powerhouse in everything that she did. She did things with a level of confidence that was inspiring for the people around her. Michelle was a huge part of my young adult life. She pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me how to be a better version of myself. Michelle was a beautiful, confident, funny, energetic, supportive and loving person. She was bold and brave. She always made me feel good about myself- like we could do anything. She made me comfortable in my own skin and helped shape the person I am today. I will always cherish the time I spent with you, Michelle. May you rest in peace.
I write this with tears in my eyes for Michelle and the entire family. I am shocked and saddened to hear of Michelle’s passing. Michelle was my best friend in elementary school from grade 3 when she first moved to Canada until high school. Though we lost touch along the way, the memories I have with Michelle will never fade and I have always known that. First of all, to the entire family: Rob, Belkys, Katya, Michelle’s grandmother Abby… thank you for always welcoming me with open arms. Katya, I know you don’t really remember me, but you were there too. For those years I was part of the family and a lot of my memories are not just with Michelle, but with you all. Michelle played a massive role in my life in those formative years. As you know, we were inseparable. Where do I even start?
My very, very first memory of Michelle was the silver bangles she wore to school without fail. I thought she was so cool for a 3rd grader. Everyone else was annoyed at how they jangled together every time she went to erase something on her paper. She had some of us convinced that she “couldn’t take them off” because they were too small and therefore permanent. Michelle ALWAYS marched to the beat of her own drum and I think that’s part of why, as a young girl, I became friends with her. I admired that about Michelle. I remember I thought it was cool how she kept her lip chap in her pencil case instead of her pocket! Lol I remember once she used the waist band of an old piece of Tommy Hilfiger underwear as a head band! She was creative and adventurous there was not a single doubt. That spirit colours a lot of the memories I share in this post – I am sorry it is so long.
I remember at one of our first sleepovers – if not the very first one – on Stone Road, Belkys blasted Who Let the Dogs Out and we danced all around the first floor of the house. I was like who ARE these cool people?? Haha We always had lots and lots of fun together. We soon realized that we did gymnastics at the same gym – Michelle was much more skilled than me! If I could pick one song that always reminds me of Michelle no doubt it would be Gasolina by Daddy Yankee. You know, due to her latin roots of course!! And that was the JAM in grade 7. Michelle and I would spend hours in the basement or backyard making up hip-hop dances. Most of the choreography was created by her - some of which I can still remember! Michelle sure could dance. We performed two routines at the school’s talent shows to “Let’s Get Down” by BowWow and “Shake Ya Tailfeather” by Nelly and P. Diddy. I still remember going to Old Navy to pick out matching grey sweat pants and matching shirts for our “costume”. I remember in one routine, since I couldn’t do backhand springs like Michelle, I was her “hype man” to the side with my hands waving in the air while she tumbled across the stage. I always laugh at how funny I must have looked. Michelle was talented in so many ways. Doing those performances made me feel cool and like I had something to offer because even though Michelle was the better dancer, she still wanted to the dance with me. She never excluded me. As an insecure young girl, she tried so desperately to help me feel more confident about myself which was a truly beautiful quality about her. Thank you, Michelle for all you did to try to help me accept myself more.
I spent many hours watching Michelle ride horses at a couple different barns. She made quizzes for me to learn about all the pieces of tack and different horse terms. Belkys, I remember the massive, beautiful costume you (and Abby?) had made for her and her horse for the Halloween Parade at York Equestrian. It was a flowing princess-like dress that draped over the back of the horse. Michelle is the reason I ever rode a horse too. I remember it was a patchy looking horse named “Tuesday” at Wagon Wheel Ranch where we all went riding as a family. When the horses started trotting together, I was terrified and of course – Michelle laughed haha. From riding horses to riding my very first roller coaster at Wonderland with her, she pushed me to try new things constantly.
Michelle and I had too many sleepovers to count. Staying up late talking. Going to her riding lesson the next day. I remember Velcro trying to wake us up every morning purring in our ears. Michelle HATED it but could also sometimes sleep through it while I lay there awake by myself haha. I specifically remember going as a family to see the first Harry Potter movie in theatres. I remember seeing Hidalgo with Michelle and Belkys (horse movie, duh) and Belkys telling off some lady in front of us for getting mad at me for whispering to Michelle during the movie lol. We rode our bikes around the neighbourhood – one time trying to ride one handed while holding the other’s hand causing me to lose my balance and smack my you-know-what right on the bar in the middle of the bike! OUCH. I was in such pain but Michelle laughed anyway which made me laugh. I remember getting my boot stuck in the mud on the schoolyard and I pulled so hard my foot came out leaving me standing in the mud in my sock. Michelle was in STITCHES. I think there was a lot of laughter at my expense because I was a little awkward and sometimes shy haha and it makes me laugh and smile wide now. You’re welcome Michelle 😉
Michelle and I wore matching Halloween costumes one year… don’t ask me what we were supposed to be… all I know was that lots of makeup and feather boas were involved. I remember Katya being born…Michelle found a way to call me on a landline at my grandparents’ house to tell me the good news. Rob and Belkys, you treated me so well. Our road trip to Myrtle Beach was my first time out of the country and such a fond memory for me. I remember Michelle and me jamming in the back seat with a duo adaptor for the Discman so both our headphones could plug in listening to the final Destiny’ Child’s album that had just come out that Christmas and “Confessions” by Usher. We saw the New River Gorge in West Virginia. We went to the beach, shopping, Ripley’s Aquarium and of course, Michelle that daredevil, had to jump into the unheated pool in the winter just to see how cold it was. Because of her I got the courage to do it too. It was COLD and that was the end of that! Michelle, again, died of laughter. I’m also pretty sure that she didn’t just jump into the pool, she probably did a round-off into it instead. True Michelle style.
I’ll also never forget our mutual crushes on certain boys and signing in and out of MSN Messenger to get their attention! Haha I’ll never forget in grade 6 or so when Michelle and I started trying to hang out with boys. A couple times we invited a few boys and girls from our classes over to her house to watch horror movies (the Final Destination films which we RENTED from the Rogers video in Aurora) and order pizza. It was the “cool” thing to do considering we were still only about 12. Michelle and I did German School on weekends for one year too. At least we had each other through that since neither of us clearly were passionate enough to continue lol I could go on and on about the memories I have of us.
Michelle was my best friend. We did everything together. We spent a big part of our “growing up” as young girls together. No matter how our lives changed as we grew older, she has always filled the memories I have from that period of my life. Writing all these memories really brings to my mind and heart all of the adventurous and wild memories that only could have happened because Michelle was there. She was feisty and confident. I think all these memories make it clear that she never failed to get me out of my comfort zone! Michelle was somehow in a league her own for someone our age. And that made her truly unique. I saw our schoolmate, Samantha, write that she wasn’t for the faint of heart because she was unapologetically herself. You got that right! I always wondered where she got her fearlessness and courage! She exposed me to so many new things for which I can only be grateful.
Though our attempts to reconnect in our late teens and early twenties didn’t work out, Michelle did and will always have a place in my heart. I hope she always knew that. Michelle, may you read this and know that I am grateful for our memories and everything you taught me and opened me up to in life. It was part of my growth into the person I am today. It truly never was a dull moment with you. Never did I expect to get this news. It makes me sad to think I will never see you again in this life. I will certainly be will be there to celebrate your life when this pandemic is over. May your soul rest in peace watching over us all. You will certainly be missed deeply by all who loved you. Until we meet again. To Belkys, Rob and Katya, I am sending all my love and strength. I love you all very much. <3
Michelle, your great energy and helpful soul will be greatly missed. We all will miss that amazing smile you always carried and the positivity you never failed to share. May you Rest In Peace and you will always be remembered.
Sending through my deepest condolences for this unbearable loss. Every time I crossed paths with Michelle she had the biggest smile on, from ear-to-ear. Michelle's warmhearted approach to others and boundlessly positive demeanour lit up any room she walked into. I'm sending my love to the entire family during this difficult time.
I did not have the pleasure of meeting Michelle, but if she was anything like her mother, Belkys, she must have been amazing. I can tell by the all the wonderful and funny descriptions that Michelle was a beautiful person inside and out. Please know that even during this time of isolation, your loss has rippled out to many and we mourn with you and are thinking of you. I hope you feel our embrace.
“Though she be but little, she is fierce!”
Michelle, As small as you were, you were a powerhouse that entered and filled every room you walked into with your big personality and incredible, genuine smile.
I will miss your visits to Miami. I will miss us dancing and giggling until the sun came up.
I will miss your silliness and infectious laughter. I will miss your energy, your honesty, your generosity and that no nonsense, contagious “let’s do this now!” attitude. But most of all, I will miss the sweet, caring, thoughtful girl who loved so fiercely.
You blazed through this life fearlessly and full of energy.
Now you remain always-
wild, beautiful, young and free.
How you will be missed...
until we dance again.
Love you.
Michelle , you did light up a room with that wonderful smile of yours. You were just full of fun and sparkle. Your mom constantly sang your praises as she was just as proud of you , as you were of her. You were feisty and determined all in a good way. You were a breath of fresh air when ever you were at the club. You will be remembered by the lives you made better just for showing up. Your smile will forever be remembered. I am sure you will be lighting the way for years to come. The wonderful times you shared with your family will bring them comfort in the hours and days to come.
I was fortunate to meet Michelle when she played on our ladies tennis team several years ago. We all enjoyed having her as a teammate. She was positive and fun, and she didn’t seem to mind that most of us were more than double her age! Michelle’s sparkling personality, friendly disposition, determination and beautiful smile, among many other positive attributes won’t be forgotten. Belkys, Rob and Katya we send you our deepest condolences. ❤ Melinda & Chris
Life is so precious and fragile ... hearing about Michelle’s passing was so shocking as she had her whole life to live. To Michelle’s family, my sincerest condolences ...I have such fond memories of her when she was part of my son’s life ..oh they were so so young but so cute...how can one not forget their son’s first girlfriend .. She was a ball of fire, spunk, funny, feisty, passionate, love, sass, such a free spirit ..✨.. as was my son. A couple of years ago I ran into her at Longo’s. Immediate hugs and good surprise .. we chatted, laughed, caught up with our lives and hugged again. My memory of her will always be young, vibrant soul.. forever now .. RIP Michelle xo
