Wilfred Leroy (Sugarbear) Marquez

MARQUEZ, WILFRED LEROY Wilfred Leroy (Sugarbear) Marquez, 59, beloved husband, step-father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, February 11, 2015. He was born December 20, 1955 and raised in Albuquerque. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phil and Louise (Martinez) Marquez. He was a Vietnam Veteran who served honorably in the United States Marine Corps as an ammunition supervisor from 1973-1976. During his service overseas Wilfred was able to pursue his passion for Martial Arts and became a master of the discipline. After being discharged from the Military, he then worked for the City of Albuquerque in the traffic department. In 1978, Wilfred unfortunately was involved in a tragic car accident that left him permanently disabled. Despite his limitations, he always maintained a strong spirit and will to live. He enjoyed listening to his “oldies” music, going for rides, and of course eating his “sweets.” Although he is no longer with us physically, his spirit lives on in our hearts. He will be missed dearly, especially his contagious smile. He is survived by his wife, Ramona Marquez; his step-sons, Jeremy Bryant, Sean Langlois, and Dylan Langlois; his dear friend, Rita Saavedra; his brothers, Henry Marquez, Gene Marquez and wife Josephine, Danny Marquez, Paul Marquez and wife Teresa, and Gerald Marquez, as well as many uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, and cousins. The family would like to thank the physicians and staff at Presbyterian Hospital and the Albuquerque VA Spinal Cord Injury Center for their many years of assistance to Wilfred and his family. Also to the Albuquerque Emergency Medical Services personnel for being the first responders numerous times when he was in need of care. His family is grateful for all of your compassion and support. A visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2015 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the Rosary being recited immediately following at the FRENCH - University, 1111 University Blvd. A final viewing will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2015 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 562 Atrisco Drive SW., with the Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 9:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Pallbearers will be Henry Marquez, Gene Marquez, Danny Marquez, Paul Marquez, Gerald Marquez and Max Marquez. Honorary Pallbearers will be Sean Langlois and Dylan Langlois. In lieu of flowers, and in recognition of Wilfred’s love for his service dog and “little bro”, Sonny, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Humane Society of NM.

Wilfred Leroy (Sugarbear) Marquez

December 20, 1955 - February 11, 2015