Marcellin Kouassi

Marcel Kouassi—a beloved son, father, brother, friend, colleague, and faithful servant whose life touched so many. Marcel was born on February 11, 1957, in Ivory Coast to Cecile and Kouakou Kouassi. He was one of eleven children, raised in a family that valued faith, education, and hard work. From an early age, Marcel excelled academically and was recognized as one of the country’s highest-achieving students. His outstanding accomplishments earned him a full government scholarship to continue his education in the United States. In the early 1980s, Marcel came to America to pursue his dreams. He lived in Baltimore before moving to Arlington, Texas, where he earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA). Later, while living in the Washington, D.C. area, he met Barbara. Marcel later moved to New York to be closer to her. They eventually married and were blessed with two children, Chavonne and Brian, whom Marcel loved with all his heart. In 2000, Marcel made Southern California his home and later became an active member of the First Baptist Church of Glendale. His faith was reflected in the way he served others. Through the church’s food ministry and community outreach, he volunteered faithfully, believing that even small acts of kindness could make a difference. One of those volunteer opportunities led him to meet the Mayor of Glendale, who encouraged him to apply for a position with the city. In 2019, Marcel joined the City of Glendale as a Financial Analyst, where he was respected and admired for his professionalism, humility, and kindness. He genuinely loved his work and often spoke warmly about his colleagues. He also remained active in civic service, including volunteering in support of the Los Angeles mayoral campaign and serving with the East Area Progressive Democrats. Marcel was especially grateful to have his brother Paul nearby in Southern California. Their close bond brought him strength, comfort, and unwavering support throughout the years. Sadly, Marcel’s life was cut far too short. In November 2025, he was diagnosed with Stage IV esophageal cancer. Despite facing this difficult battle with remarkable courage and dignity, the disease progressed quickly. Less than eight months later, on July 25, 2026, Marcel passed away, surrounded by his brother, Paul, and his wife, Mimi. One of Marcel’s final wishes was to return to Ivory Coast to see his beloved mother one last time. Although that wish was never fulfilled, his love for his family remained constant until his final breath. Marcel left behind a legacy of faith, service, integrity, and compassion. He will be remembered as a man who loved deeply, worked diligently, served selflessly, and inspired others through his quiet strength and generous heart. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on through his children, his family, his church, his friends, his colleagues, and all those who were blessed to know him. Marcel Kouassi will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and never forgotten.