Eric J. Gardin, 51, passed away peacefully in his home March 18, 2017.  He was born In Valparaiso, Indiana.

Although Eric was born with Cerebral Palsy and had limited movement, he lived every day to the fullest and brought joy to those around him.  He was passionate about disability advocacy, exercising rights, and achieving goals.

Eric is survived by his mother, Sue M. Gardin; siblings, Dawn (David) Bauman, Michelle (Josue) Escalante, and Jeff (Marc Bailey) Gardin; niece, Christina Escalante; nephews, Christopher Bauman, Eric Escalante, and Eddie Escalante; special friends Ashlee Zeleta and Jane Smith; and caretaker Aticeia Crockett.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald J. Gardin.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 8115 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis, IN  46236, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation for one hour prior.  Burial will be Friday, March 24, 2017 at San Pierre Cemetery at 1:00 Eastern/12:00 Central.

Special thanks to Josue (Josh) for providing a loving, special, and caring home for Eric.

Memorial donations may be directed to Tangram or Holy Cross Lutheran Church.