John Gerald Abarca

John “Johnny” Gerard Abarca passed away on May 9, 2025. A true MacGyver—a chef, seamster, auto body worker, welder, upholsterer, carpenter, and self-taught musician—Johnny’s many talents and infectious laughter made him family to all. He generously shared his knowledge with anyone willing to work hard and learn. There wasn't a family member he didn’t help when needed.

Born January 7, 1961, Johnny helped raise his nieces and cousins. He kept a skeptic’s mind and a big heart. Though raised Catholic, he was affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist faith in his adult years.

Johnny is survived by his children, Anthony and John Joe; his mother, Tina; siblings Marty, Christine, Louise, and Vincent, and George; and his Perez cousins—especially Tony—who were like brothers to him and filled his active years with great memories before the inactivity of his illness took over.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Cervantes Abarca; father, Selso Abarca; brothers Ronald and Luke; tias Jessie, Anita, and Lucita; tios Manuel and Eliseo; and cousin Anita “Chunny,” all of whom served as parental and sibling figures throughout his upbringing and life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to www.ataxia.org.

In honor of Johnny, a memorial service will be held for family and friends at The Eagles Nest in Argentine, American Legion Post 213, 1044 S 26th St, Kansas City, KS 66106, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. There will not be a separate funeral or burial service.

Johnny’s love and continued humor will forever bind us together.