Onie Marquez

Onie Marquez, a devoted husband and father, passed away on November 24, 2023, at the age of 82.

Born on April 21, 1941, to Benedito and Eleanor Marquez in Piedra Lumbre, New Mexico, Onie was the sixth of nine children. His journey through life was marked by hard work, family values, and unwavering faith.

Onie spent his early years in Piedra Lumbre, where he shouldered responsibilities alongside his father, mother and siblings, tending to the family farm and livestock. His early experiences shaped his character, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility that would guide him throughout his life.

On August 13, 1960, Onie married the love of his life, Prescilla, marking the beginning of a remarkable 60-year journey together. They were blessed with the joy of raising two sons, Stephen Duane, born April 3, 1961, and Michael James, born December 29, 1975, and later, the arrival of their cherished granddaughter, Brianna, on August 17, 1998.

Onie's professional journey led him away from the family farm to service stations in Grants, and eventually into the bowling business. In 1970, he joined Brunswick, leading to a move to Albuquerque. A year later, the family relocated to Colorado Springs, where they made their home from 1971 to 2004. Onie continued his career with Brunswick during this time, leaving a lasting impact on those he worked with.

Onie’s hobbies included being an avid sports fan and meticulously caring for his yard, earning him the title of having the greenest grass in the neighborhood. His love for sports manifested through his enthusiastic support for the Cowboys, Lakers and Yankees.

During his time in Colorado Springs, Onie found comfort and strength in his faith. Introduced to the Lord by Prescilla, he embraced Christianity on October 25, 1988, and was baptized in believer's baptism at Circle Drive Baptist Church. His spiritual journey became an integral part of his life, offering comfort and guidance through the joys and challenges that lay ahead.

The Marquez family faced profound sorrow on December 12, 2003, with the unexpected passing of their beloved son, Stephen Duane. The year 2020 brought further heartache with the loss of Onie's devoted wife, Prescilla, on December 2. These losses were deeply felt, and Onie carried the weight of their memory.

Onie Marquez is reunited in eternal peace with his parents: Benedito and Eleanor Marquez; his wife: Prescilla Marquez; his son: Steve Marquez; and siblings: Benny Marquez, Gabe Marquez, Leo Marquez, Elosia Chavez, and Esther Serna.

He is survived by his son: Michael Marquez and wife Michelle of Colorado Springs; his brother: Joe Marquez; and sisters: Feliz Ulibarri and Viola Garcia. Also mourning his passing are his granddaughters: Brianna Marquez-Vigil and Chelsea Vigil-Ballew; grandsons: Austin Smith and Adrian Minnis; and three great-grandchildren.

Onie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication to family that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.