Adrian Man Dies After 13-Month ALS Battle

Abelardo Garcia, 52, was a devoted father and car enthusiast who fought his terminal diagnosis with courage.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Abelardo Garcia, a 52-year-old resident of Adrian, Michigan, passed away on March 3, 2026, at ProMedica Hickman Hospital following a 13-month battle with ALS. Garcia was a lifelong Adrian resident, a skilled mechanic, and a loving father of three children. He is remembered for his passion for cars, his dedication to his family, and his bravery in facing his terminal illness.

Why it matters

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that gradually robs individuals of their physical abilities. Garcia's story highlights the personal toll of this disease and the importance of supporting ALS research and patient care in local communities.

The details

Abelardo Garcia was employed as a forklift operator at GLOV Enterprises in Tecumseh. He was a skilled mechanic and car enthusiast who took great pride in maintaining his vehicles. In his younger years, he earned a Green Belt in Karate and remained a strong fighter throughout his life, even after his ALS diagnosis. Garcia enjoyed spending time with his three children, Ariana, Isaac, and Isabelle, and was remembered as a loving and selfless father.

  • Abelardo Garcia was diagnosed with ALS in February 2025.
  • Garcia passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 52.

The players

Abelardo Garcia

A 52-year-old resident of Adrian, Michigan, who passed away after a 13-month battle with ALS. He was a skilled mechanic, car enthusiast, and devoted father of three children.

Yolanda Sanchez

Abelardo Garcia's mother, who resides in Rockwell, Texas.

Fidel Garcia, Jr.

Abelardo Garcia's father, who resides in Adrian, Michigan.

Kristy Rodriguez

The mother of Abelardo Garcia's three children, who resides in Adrian, Michigan.

Father Tom Helfrich, OSFS

The priest who officiated Abelardo Garcia's memorial service.

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What’s next

The family will hold a memorial visitation and service for Abelardo Garcia on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian.

The takeaway

Abelardo Garcia's story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of ALS and the importance of supporting research and patient care for this terminal illness. His life was marked by his passion for cars, his devotion to his family, and his courageous fight against his diagnosis.