Marco Antonio Zarate passed away July 12, 2016 in the line of duty at the age of 52 in Houston, Texas. He was born on the Northside of Houston on October 2, 1963. He served in the Motorcycle Unit of the Bellaire Police Department and in the United States Marine Corp.
Marco was appointed as a Bellaire Police Officer on May 26, 2009 by Chief of Police Randall Mack and was sworn in by Judge Lisa Wesley on May 27, 2009. During his career with the Bellaire Police Department, Marco was assigned over 15,000 calls for service and issued citations for 8,954 violations. He investigated over 600 motor vehicles accidents and completed 218 offense reports. Marco made 431 arrests, 118 of which were charges in Harris County Courts.
Marco leaves behind a family that adored him; who he loved and cared for deeply. He is survived by his wife Cecilia; three daughters, Meghan, Miah, and Mayah; parents Cristina Jamaux and Marco Zarate Sr.; step-parents JC Jamaux and Soccoro Zarate; parents-in-law Enrique and Betty Ponce; younger sisters Maggie Zarate, Cynthia Tamez, and Yvonne Zarate; nieces Alexis, Aliza, and Pilar; nephews Eric, Christian, Jonathan, and Abel; and brothers-in-law Mike Cavazos, Raul Rodriguez and Guillermo Ponce.
Marco instantly found passion when he began his career in law enforcement. Through his work, he was able to touch an entire community with his warmth, love and kindness. He has served as Defense Tactics Instructor, Fitness Coordinator, and participated in numerous applicant fitness assessments. He has received 13 Letters of Commendations and his performance evaluations contain numerous complimentary letters from citizens. He has been awarded the following: Uniform Commendations Bicycle, Military Commendation (USMC), Honor Guard, and Physical Fitness.
He volunteered with the Special Olympics annually and was an active member in the Thin Blue Line motorcycle police community. He valued health and wellness and earned his second-degree black belt in Karate. His family and friends will remember him always for his infectious sense of humor, unwavering dependability, and the endless supply of love he provided.
The family will receive family and friends on Sunday, July 17, 2016 at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX. Visitation will be from 12:00PM – 7:00PM; scripture service will be at 3:00PM followed by Words of Remembrance.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 18, 2016 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1111 St. Joseph Parkway at 2:00PM; burial to follow at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home.
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