Steve Marquette

John Steven "Steve" Marquette, Sr., age 77, of Kingsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025. He was the devoted husband of 57 years to Sharon (née Norman) Marquette. Born on February 6, 1948, Steve was the son of the late Amelia (née Dawson) and Charles Marquette. He was predeceased by his brothers James Marquette (Diane) and David Marquette. He is also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Ronald Norman, and survived by his sisters-in-law, Beverly Brown (Ron) and Gail Sorenson.

Steve lived a life rooted in family, hard work, and community. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Sharon, beginning a 57-year journey together filled with devotion, humor, and joy. After marrying Sharon, he worked full-time during the day while completing his college education at night—a commitment that underscored his determination to provide for his family and lead by example. In 1971, they settled in Kingsville, Maryland, where they raised their family, built lasting friendships, and became part of the Salem United Methodist Church community.

Together, Steve and Sharon were blessed with four sons. John S. Marquette, Jr. (Dana, née Yeagley); Michael D. Marquette (Kelly, née Roark); Charles T. Marquette (Jessica Raba); and Daniel J. Marquette (Marni, née Schlenker). Steve took tremendous pride in being "Grandy" to his eight grandchildren, who were the light of his life: Abigail (20), Kiley (17), Hailey (15), Lily (14), Max (14), Landon (10), Tess (9), and Violet (5).

Steve began his coaching career at Kingsville Recreation Council, where he served as President and first coached his sons in Little League baseball and youth football. His passion and talent for coaching quickly grew, leading him to opportunities coaching football at The John Carroll School, Calvert Hall College High School, Archbishop Curley High School, and Parkville High School. More than a coach, he was a mentor, role model, and father figure to countless young men whose lives he touched both on and off the field. Over the years, some of his most meaningful coaching moments were spent side by side with his sons, passing on not only his love of the game but also his values of teamwork, respect, and perseverance. His career came full circle when he returned to coaching youth football at Fallston Recreation Council, where he closed out his final season in September 2025 with his sons at his side.

Beyond his career in coaching, Steve built a respected professional life working in sales for more than 40 years. Known for his integrity, knowledge, work ethic, and genuine character, he forged lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike.

Steve will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his larger-than-life presence. A natural athlete from a young age, he played softball at Northside Baptist Church and wrestled at the Baltimore Polytechnic Institute during high school. He went on to play basketball at the University of Baltimore. Later, Steve enjoyed playing softball with his Kingsville community team and through the Salem United Methodist Church league. One of his greatest joys came later in life when he played alongside his adult sons as part of the Subway team, always finding energy and happiness in competition, camaraderie, and family.

Off the field, Steve was a natural storyteller with a sharp sense of humor, filling every room with laughter and warmth. He loved working in his yard, watching family wiffle ball games, and relaxing by the pool while his children and grandchildren played. He rarely missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren at their basketball, field hockey, football, lacrosse, soccer, and softball games or beam with pride during their dance recitals. He especially treasured attending school grandparents' days, where he not only celebrated with his own grandchildren but also extended his kindness to children whose grandparents could not be there.

Steve's life was a testament to love, loyalty, and laughter. He will be deeply missed but joyfully remembered. His legacy will live on in his family, the countless athletes he coached, and all who were fortunate to know him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Salem United Methodist Church, located at 7901 Bradshaw Road, Upper Falls, Maryland, 21156. A celebration of Steve's life will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at Salem United Methodist Church, followed by lunch in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to give a memorial contribution are asked to consider the Salem United Methodist Church (https://www.salemunited.org/donate) and the Fallston Recreation Council, Inc., Attn: Fallston Football, 1707 Fallston Road, Fallston, Maryland, 21047.