Timothy Jason (T.J.) Marquardt, 18, of Highland, peacefully passed away on Sept. 10, 2019. He was born Sept. 7, 2001 in Detroit, the son of Frederic and Jeanne (Kurtz) Marquardt. He was currently attending Huron Valley Schools and scheduled to graduate in spring 2020.
T.J. was born with Spina Bifida and underwent numerous surgeries and medical procedures throughout his life. Embracing his challenges, he always had a smile on his face and enjoyed various activities that brought him joy.
T.J. was a huge fan of the Detroit Tigers. He visited Comerica Park many times with his family and almost never missed a televised game. Outside of church or other “dress-up” occasions, T.J. would only wear Detroit Tigers clothing. His room was painted orange and blue and was decorated with too many Tigers’ items to count.
In addition, T.J. was an avid camper and loved spending time with family and friends at campgrounds throughout Michigan. He also enjoyed school and relished the time he spent swimming, with the buoyancy of the water letting him move freely without the restrictions of his wheelchair.
T.J. is survived by his parents, Frederic and Jeanne Marquardt of Highland; his brother Tyler and his sister Alexis, both at home. He also leaves his maternal grandmother, Sonja Kurtz, of New Hudson; and his paternal grandfather, Fredrick Marquardt of Bancroft. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Thomas Kurtz and paternal grandmother Penny Marquardt.
Cremation arrangements are being handled by Elton Black & Son Funeral Home in Highland. A Celebration of Life service for T.J. will be held Friday, October 11, 2019 at Cornerstone Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 9455 Hilton Road, Brighton. Visitation with family will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the service at 11 a.m.
Everyone who met T.J. was inspired by his courage and uplifted by his smile. He will be dearly missed by many.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8
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