Edgar Galarza

June 2, 1955 - February 12, 2021

UTICA – Edgar Ramiro Castillo Galarza, 65, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021, at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare. He was born on June 2, 1955, in Ecuador, the son of Jose Galarza and Julieta Castillo, and migrated to the US at age 11. Edgar was a graduate of NYU and Fordham University, earning Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and High Finance. He was employed at the Rescue Mission of Utica as the mission’s Emergency Shelter Coordinator. On August 28, 2015, Edgar married Marie Stojan at the Rescue Mission chapel. His ministry to the underprivileged in our community spread far and wide. He never saw a person for what their situation was, but rather for how they could better their situation. Edgar would share his chicken salad story and tell them he was there to help them in any way he could. His faith in Jesus Christ compelled him to serve with a compassionate heart. Edgar was one to give to the least of these, you would often find Edgar going outside of his regular tasks to talk with residents or community members offering them guidance and support through any situation they were going through. He gained the respect of the entire community because of his care and concern for those in need. Edgar not only cared for the residents in his care but also cared for his colleagues and those he interacted with on a professional level. When you were in Edgar's presence you felt everything was going to be okay. He had knowledge of so many subjects which made him able to relate to people. Edgar's sense of humor was second to none and he was able to always lighten the mood. The Rescue Mission family and all the community agencies Edgar interacted with were truly blessed to know such an amazing man who gave the past 14 years of his life to care for not only those in need but to his colleagues as well. Edgar's legacy will continue because he instilled it in his staff, love ones, friends, and the people in his care. Edgar never gave up on anyone and always believed if there was life there was hope. Edgar is survived by his wife Marie Elliott; his sisters Irene Reyes (husband Gonzalo), Susanna Vasquez (husband Tommy); and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the ICU staff for their excellent care and support. Donations in Edgar’s memory can be given to the Rescue Mission of Utica. A celebration of Edgar’s life will be forthcoming.