There was a sad day in travel.

The Chief Operating Officer and Co-Partner of Cruise Planners passed away after a long illness.

One of the most well-known and influential figures in all of travel was the man known asGarcia. She was admired for her persistence and forward- thinking because she had moved up the ranks and learned every job there was. She was always in charge.

"As I reflect on our 18-year partnership, I feel blessed to have had such a sincere, warm and fun friend by my side." She knew the secret to her success was in the agents and Home Office Team who were part of her extended family. She felt like that.

She had a career in travel that spanned more than 30 years.

Cruise Planners said that he will be remembered as an ardent supporter of the travel industry.

Her leadership as well as her role as an advocate and volunteer for many causes has secured her the recognition of being one of South Florida's Top 25 Influential Business Women.

He served on the boards of Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, American Express Travel, Special Needs Group, DEPARTURES Magazine Advisory Board, Regent Seven Seas Council, and The Travel Corporation.

Her family includes her husband, Carol; brother, John; and her niece and nephew.