Richard Michael Marques

Richard Marques, 83, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 8, 1942, Richard was the son of the late Amadeu and Grace (Ravalese) Marques. Richard lived a life defined by devotion, humor, and a quiet strength that made everyone around him feel safe, cherished, and deeply loved.

He was married for 60 beautiful years to the love of his life and soulmate, Sandra (Grilli) Marques. Their bond was the heart of everything—built on loyalty, laughter, and unwavering love. Together, they raised three children: Richard A. Marques and his wife Renee, Darren Marques, and Beth Marques Richardson and her husband Christopher. Richard was a proud and adoring grandfather to Colby, Alexandria, Braydon, and Michael. His famous “Poppi cakes” were more than breakfast—they were a treasured tradition, served with love and a twinkle in his eye.

His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He especially loved watching his grandsons play football and soccer, cheering from the sidelines with a smile that said everything. He was their biggest fan, and they knew it.

Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures: rooting for the Yankees, enjoying a cigar while mowing the lawn, and trying his luck at the casino. He especially cherished family vacations—walking the shoreline of Maine, exploring the adventure parks of Florida, and soaking up the sun in Aruba with his cousins. These weren’t just trips; they were filled with laughter, storytelling, and the kind of memories that knit his family even closer together.

He was a fierce protector of his family—steadfast and unwavering—whose presence brought laughter, light, and unconditional love to every moment shared.

Richard is survived by his sister, Delores Quick and her husband Ed, his sister Virginia Alleano, and his brother-in-law Dr. Gary Grilli, who were all beloved and cherished by him.

Richard is predeceased by his brother-in-law Santo Alleano, his sister-in-law Jean Grilli, his mother and father-in-law Lou and Betty Grilli, all of whom were a part of many treasured family memories.

He leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who adored him and will feel his absence just as deeply as his immediate family. His warmth, humor, and generous spirit touched countless lives.

He will be remembered as a man who made everyone feel welcome. His humor was infectious, his heart was generous, and his love for his family was unwavering. Richard didn’t just live a good life—he made life better for everyone lucky enough to know him.

Funeral service will be Thursday, September 18, with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10:30 am at St. Christopher Church of North American Martyrs Parish, 538 Brewer Street, East Hartford. Entombment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum, Burnside Avenue, East Hartford. Everyone is asked to please go directly to the church on Thursday morning. Richard’s family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, September 17, from 4 – 7 pm at the D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to North American Martyrs Parish, 15 Maplewood Avenue, East Hartford, CT 06108 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopoeh.com