Arthur Marquez Sr, 96 years old, was called to his Eternal home on Sunday, March 31, 2019. He passed peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Art was born on September 2, 1922 in Pueblo, Colorado to Atanacio V. and Anita H. Marquez. He moved with his family to different areas of Cali-fornia before they put roots down in Gonzales, California. In 1943, Arthur enlisted in the army and served his country during World War II. He participated in the Invasion of Normandy landing on Utah Beach and served until 1945. Art received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained in combat and was proud to serve his country. He proudly called himself an American.
Upon his return to Gonzales in 1945, he fell deeply in love and in October 1947 he married the Love of his Life, Marie Marquez. They had two children of their own (who they both loved beyond measure) and had a marriage that was filled with much happiness, laughter, love and devotion. Years later, Art would cherish his role as grandpa to his two granddaughters – spending almost everyday with them.
For over thirty-one years, Art worked in beverage services selling and delivering his favorite beer brands all over the county. Every-where he went he made friends, he was funny, kind, and so very friendly. For many years, Art would meet his buddies in the early morning for coffee at the local Starbucks where he was somewhat of a local celebrity.
Above all else, Arthur loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He loved cowboy westerns, the Dodgers, and football. He loved to take drives in his car. He loved making his families “chili” recipe. He loved and was loved fiercely in return. He will be greatly missed.
Arthur is survived by, his wife of 71 years, Marie Marquez; daugh-ter, Cynthia Strobridge; two granddaughters – Stephanie Strobridge-Duran (Tomas) and Vanessa Strobridge; and his sisters Anita Silva and Laura Bustamante; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Arthur was preceded in death by his beloved son, Arthur Marquez Jr, his parents, Antanacio and Anita, brother, Joe Marquez, sisters, Sally Blanco, Tola Saldivar, Connie Pina, and Hortencia Pinon.
The family would like to thank Eden Valley Care Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Healthy Living at Home, Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital, VNA Hospice of Monterey, Gonzales Fire Department, and the countless Doctors, nurses, and staff at these locations who helped care for Arthur.
Rosary will be held 7:00p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at Struve and Laporte Chapel, 41 W. San Luis Street, Salinas, CA. 93901.
Funeral Mass will be held 10:00a.m. Thursday, April 11, 2019 at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church, 116 Belden St. Gonzales, CA. 93926. Followed by Military Honors at the Church.Funeral Arrangements by Struve and Laporte Funeral Home.
Online condolences to www.struveandlaporte.com
