RACINE – Miguel Marquez passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on May 12, 2024 at the age of 92.

Miguel Marquez, affectionately known as 'Mike' by all those who knew and loved him, was born in Eagle Pass, TX on June 5, 1931, to Antonio Marquez and Maria Gonzalez. He was raised by his Grandmother Maria Gonzalez and his Great-Grandmother Leopolda Betancourt.

Mike was united in marriage to Sally (nee: Gutierrez) Marquez on October 2, 1954 at St. Rose Church in Racine, WI. Sally was the love of his life.

Mike has always been known for his hard work ethic; it was here where he earned the nickname "Caballo". At a young age Mike and his brothers traveled to Washington, Arizona and Texas to work the fields to help their family with additional income. Once Mike met Sally, and they started a family, Mike was employed by Peter Cooper Corporation for 20 years until he retired. Upon retirement Mike and Sally enjoyed working together for several more years at Maryann Cleaning Services.

Some of his greatest hobbies that he loved were music and sports.  He played baseball and softball, the nickname "Caballo" quickly translated to the field. The legend of "Caballo" still deeply resonates with our family through his great stories and family memories. Mike was also a vocalist and guitarist of the "Los Casanovas" Tejano band that traveled and performed throughout the southeastern Wisconsin circuit for many years.

He was a man of faith and a member of St. Patrick's church for over 50 years. He spent many years as a member of the choir, as well. Mike was known by family and friends for lighting a candle and saying a prayer, he continued this tradition faithfully.

After his retirement he stayed busy. If he wasn't home you would likely catch him on his early morning walks for his newspaper and lottery tickets at Dale Lieungh's on Lathrop or on a bike ride in the neighborhood.

In the later years of his life he enjoyed time with his loved ones and deeply enjoyed sharing stories and memories.  He was cared for by his grandson Jordan who ensured that he was never alone. And, lastly we cannot forget his daily hot chocolate and concha, which were Mike's favorite.

Mike and Sally raised seven children. He is survived by Luis (Karen) Marquez, Milwaukee, Michael Marquez, Racine, Maria (Don) Larson, Racine, Joe (Amy) Marquez, Racine and Celestina Marquez, Racine.

He was a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife, Sally. He was also preceded in death by his son Johnny Marquez and daughter Carmel Johnson, both of Racine, his grandchildren Johnny James Johnson and Mariah Marquez, his mother, Maria Gonzalez, and father, Antonio Marquez, grandmother, Maria Gonzalez, and great-grandmother, Leopolda Betancourt. Mike was also preceded in death by his siblings, Rosa Guzman and Lydia Gonzalez.

A Mass of Catholic Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 24, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Patrick Church, 1100 Erie Street. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery-Racine. Visitation will be at St. Patrick Church on Friday from 9:30-11:00 am, prior to the Mass.

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