Jesus Garcia

By Cecilia Levine From Daily Voice

Police Officer Jesus Garcia, a longtime member of the Guttenberg Police Department, died on Saturday, Nov. 22, after what the department called a “brave and extended fight with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).” He was 53 years old.

The department announced his passing on Saturday, Garcia was “more than just a dedicated officer; he was a great coworker, a leader, a mentor, a loving husband, father, and, most importantly, an outstanding human being.” 

Garcia, known to many as “Chuchi,” passed away peacefully at his North Bergen residence surrounded by family, according to his obituary on the Barquin Funeral Home website.

Born in Havana, Cuba, he proudly served the Fairview and Guttenberg communities as a police officer. He served as commander of the Guttenberg Police Department Honor Guard and was a member of the Special Response Team. His obituary said he battled ALS since 2021, confronting each day “with persistent strength until the very end.”

Garcia is survived by his devoted wife, Marlene, his daughter Lauren Garcia Marcigliano and her husband, Genaro, along with his grandchildren Julian Jesus and Valentina Maria. He is also remembered by his mother, Norma, and his dog, Diesel.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Barquin Funeral Home, located at 7101 Broadway in Guttenberg. Morning visitation will follow on Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., with a Catholic Blessing at 9:45 a.m.