Abelardo Arebalo Jr.

Abelardo "Boy" Arebalo Jr., a loving husband, father, and grandfather was born on December 11, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona to parents Abelardo and Julia Arebalo and passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 75 surrounded by loved ones. A resident of El Paso, Texas, Abel was known for his brave, beloved, compassionate, kind-hearted, humorous, and wise nature.

During his early life, Abel ran track in high school, earning scholarships that led him to run for Glendale Community College and eventually Arizona State University. His athletic prowess was evident from a young age in which he maintained as a lifestyle of remaining active throughout his lifetime. Abel dedicated 21 years to the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. He was heavily awarded, with a wide array of medals demonstrating his vast skill set. While in Korea, he shared his knowledge by teaching English.

His marriage to Rosana brought them joy and harmony over the course of 41 years, and together they raised their cherished children, Leo-Anthony Ortiz and John-Paul Ortiz. Abel loved his family deeply and enjoyed fun trips while stationed in the US and overseas with his loving wife, maintaining a bond filled with the same spark as the day they met.

Abel had a warm and inviting personality with a Hollywood smile that could light up any room. He made staying active on the track in the Arizona sun look effortless, frequently winning medals in marathons locally. He completed four marathons to earn the complete series of medals offered, a win that demonstrates his determined and decisive character that made Abel dearly appreciated. His Catholic faith was central to his life, and he contributed to his community by teaching Catholic catechism and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus in Hinesville, Georgia.

Described as regal, humorous, brilliant, and reliable, Abelardo's dedication to his faith, family, country and community will be sorely missed. He is survived by his sons Leo-Anthony Ortiz, with his wife Margaret and daughter Cadence, John-Paul Ortiz, with his wife Cecilia and children John-Paul Jr., Caleb, and Violet-Ann; daughter Maria Teresa Gonzales, and siblings Martha Garcia and Lupe Anderson.