Obituary for
Michael James Marquez
Michael James Marquez was born on June 4, 1929, in Sheridan, Wyoming. His family lived in this area doing migrant work until they moved to California where his dad took a job with the railroad in Suisun, CA. He graduated from Armijo High School in Fairfield, CA and enlisted in the Navy in 1950. He was part of the United States Naval Construction Battalion, better known as the Sea Bees. He worked in the Philippines and Southeast Asia during the Korean War, constructing military runways. Upon returning from his time in the service, he enrolled in Napa Junior College where he played football, went to school and worked construction. He later took a job with the Division of Highways (Caltrans). In 1969, he married Mary Hofstede and shortly after, they moved to Lodi, CA. He went on to work for Caltrans District 10 as an environmental engineer. In his work, he also served as a liaison with the Native Americans during archaeological digs in our local foothills. Mike worked for Caltrans for 37 years.
Mike was an actively involved dad coaching and assistant coaching his childrens’ various sports--- softball, baseball or his favorite, soccer. He was a member of the St. Anne’s School Board, where his three children attended school.
In retired life, he and his wife were able to travel both internationally and locally. He was talented craftsman building furniture for his family and friends. Following a stroke in 2000, Mike developed a passion for painting (even though he had to learn to paint with his left hand) and painted beautiful pictures for his family and friends.
Mike will be best known as a quiet, compassionate man of few words but a huge heart. His family meant the world to him and he showered them with love and affection. He will be missed but never forgotten.
Mike is survived by his wife, Mary, his three children: Michele (Scott Tatum), Laura (Will Lujan), Michael jr (Carrie); his six grandchildren: Kyleigh Tatum, Skyler Tatum, William Lujan, Jackson Marquez, Kate Marquez, Ben Marquez; his siblings: Dave Marquez (Pat), Manuel Marquez, Eddie Marquez (Madeline) and preceded in death by his parents Miguel and Mary Marquez, and his brothers: Rafael Marquez, Alex Marquez (Judy) and Art Marquez (Jean). A memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 17, 10:30, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. There is no visitation.
