Juan Manuel Garcia

Juan was born on May 3, 1962 to Ernesto and Yolanda (Hernandez) Garcia in Grand Rapids. He was 1 of 9 siblings and uniquely stood out due to his reddish blonde hair. He was always known for being the life of the party wherever he went as his exuberant personality always stood out. In his teens and 20s he was a local rock star in a Grand Rapids based band called Pegasus. The band was always very popular in the area. Fittingly, one of his favorite things to do was to sing karaoke. He also loved to sing in the choir at his church where he was very active.

In 1980 Juan graduated high school and went on to become a craftsman where he made furniture. In 2001 he married Amy Paul. Juan was a proud father of two children and five step-children whom he loved all the same. As a father, Juan made an effort to develop deep connections with his family and always put his family first as that was his priority in life. He was always selfless and would frequently change his own personal life to accommodate others. In his family’s words he was “the most forgiving person” in the world and always kind to everyone.

In addition to singing and music Juan loved sports, especially the Detroit Lions. In the late 80s and early 90s he coached soft ball in the City League and was very active in that scene. Another pastime of his was watching the rain when it stormed out as that brought him peace and comfort.

Juan is survived by his children Tony and Grace; his five step-children Sadie, Collin, Dustin, Sarah, and Melody; his siblings Rick (Tina) Garcia, Lee Garcia, Ernesto (Debra) Garcia, Linda (Troy) Hockemeyer, Steve Garcia, Randy Garcia, David Garcia, and Irene (Mark) Ortega; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Ernesto and Yolanda.

A memorial service to celebrate Juan’s life will be held on Thursday August 10, 2023 at 11:00 at ResLife Church, 5100 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, MI. Friends may visit with the family starting at 10:00 before the service at the church. Following the service the family would like to invite friends to a potluck luncheon at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI from 1-3.