Mario Adams

Mario “Rio” LaSalle Adams peacefully passed away on August 29, 2022, at the age of 42, surrounded by friends and family. Reflecting his generous nature in life, Mario continues to bless others in death by donating several of his organs.

Mario was born on July 24, 1980 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Marcel Adams. His three parents, Marcel, Mark and Deb Horrell affectionately raised him. Mario attended Kentwood Public Schools, where he excelled in basketball, track and field, and, most notably, football. He was an all-state running back for East Kentwood High School. In 1999, Mario led the Falcons to victory in the East-West All Star game broke the state record with 13 carries for 104 yards rushing. His talents and gifts carried him to Jackson State University and Grand Valley State University.

As a man of many talents, Mario worked as a bus driver for Grand Rapids Public School system, an ambulatory driver for patients, and a professional truck driver. However, Mario’s most memorable work was born through his lifelong passion for writing and music. He wrote a plethora of poems, comical anecdotes, and music which included a catalog of Christian rap.

Mario is survived by his parents, Marcel Adams, Mark Horrell, and Deb Horrell. He will be lovingly remembered by his aunt Angela Adams (Russ), uncle Steven Perry (Gloria), uncle Vincent Range (Margarita), and several aunts and uncles. Mario’s legacy lives on with his siblings: Dominique Groenveld (Nichole), Alayna Vernon (Maurice), and Danielle Horrell. Mario’s memories will transcend his life through his childhood friend, George Moss. His love for laughter, corny jokes, and infinite joy lives on with his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Mario is rejoicing in heaven with his grandparents, Charles and Wanda Perry, his beloved cousin Dominique Adams, and his uncle, Charles Perry.

God saw you were getting tired and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered, “Come With Me.”