Jeffrey De La Garza, 41, of Ottawa, passed away on Monday, November 17, 2025 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa with Rev. David Ufkes, officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.
Jeff was born on August 17, 1984 in Del Rio, TX to Jeffrey and Lori (Soenksen) De La Garza. He owned and operated his own business, and was a master of many things. Jeff was a handyman who could create anything. He worked on all of our homes, leaving a piece of himself in every project and in our hearts. Most of all he never forgot how important family was especially his love for his children, Jeffrey, Madison, and Van. Jeff had a remarkable way of making those around him smile and laugh. We ask that you remember him as he lived – wearing the smile that touched us all.
He is survived by his mother and step father, Lori (Mark Lippert) De La Garza; his father, Jeffrey De La Garza; three children Jeffrey III, Madison, and Van (Mother of children, Lisetta Couch); two sisters, Karri Riva and Jenny (Jordan) Abernathy; step-sister, Callista Kummer; his maternal grandmother, Geri Soenksen; nieces and nephews, Mia, Jeremiah, and Jack Abernathy, Mary and GG Riva, and Alex Garncarz; and many, aunts, uncles, and cousins near and far.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents and his maternal grandfather.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433