Jose "Joe" Luis Marroquin

The Man, The Myth, The Legend

Jose (Joe) Luis Marroquin, age 82, passed away on July 3, 2024.

Jose (Joe) Luis Marroquin's story began October 28, 1941, in Sinton Texas.

Joe joined the Marine Corps at the tender age of seventeen, 1958 -1969, Vietnam 1967-1968.

He was promoted to Staff Sergeant; he joined the 1st and 3rd Force Reconnaissance Battalion where he received numerous meritorious unit citations.

Joe was instrumental in initiating an intensive training program that enabled his entire company to

achieve greater proficiency in reconnaissance tactics.

Ex: Climbing 250 feet down a cliff by rope to rescue a rock climber who had a broken hip, in darkness and physically carrying the 180 pound man back up the cliff.

Ex: Bronze Star medals with combat V while on recon missions so deep within hostile territory

they could not be supported by friendly artillery. Joe was very proud of the fact that he never lost a man on his numerous patrols.

After Joe left the Marines, he went to work at Midland Police from 1969 to 1972.

As he was driving to apply for Houston Police, he got lost and ended up at the Bellaire Police

station where he was hired on the spot. He was promoted to Sergeant and worked from 1972-1984

In 1984, Joe went to Harris Co. Sheriff Dept. where he was promoted to Background Investigator. Where it was said that if you passed all of Joe Marroquin's tough requirements nothing could stop you! Joe retired in 2012.

Well, Joe was bored at home, so he decided to work for Pct. 7 from 2012- 2016, when Constable May Walker hired him on the spot also.

He Could not stay at home then either.

So, he ended up back with Bellaire Police as a bailiff from 2017 to 2024 when we lost him.

Joe mentored many officers who are now in Command positions, and some owe their careers to Joe's decisions he made at some critical scenes. He was tough but always fair. Besides being

a black belt in karate, he was an expert shot with his rifle and pistol, winning numerous competitions throughout his career. Joe would say and I quote, I can shoot the hair off a flea's

ass and he could!

Joe lived a full and interesting life that most people only dream about.

Joe was a man who served his community throughout his whole life, his service as a Marine

and his 54 years of public service as a police officer.

Joe was a lot of man for just one man! He was an unforgettable character who lived his life on his terms and forged an unspoken pathway.

He has left an indelible mark on all those he encountered and will be greatly missed.

Preceded in death by parents Vincenta and Ezquiel, brother Juan, sister Millie

and sons Joseph and Jose II.

Joe is survived by (and I quote) the love of his life, his wife Kathy, with whom together shared a bond so deep their hearts and souls were entwined. They had 45 wonderful years of love, magical wild adventures, and partnership.

Sons: Marcus and his wife Amy, Patrick and his wife Barbara

Daughters: Megan, Morgan and her husband Chase

Brothers: Ramon and his wife Laurie, Martin and his wife Janie

Grandchildren: Jacob and Daniel, Mackenzie and Joe Patrick, Evangeline and Clark

Numerous nieces and nephews

A celebration of life for Jose "Joe" will be held Friday, January 31, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 4525 Bissonnet St., Bellaire, TX 77401. The graveside service will be held at 1:45 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77038.