Marshal B Rosenthal

Marshal B. Rosenthal passed away peacefully at his home in San Jose on September 1, 2025, at the age of 99. Born on March 14, 1926, to Marshal B. Rosenthal Sr. and Margaret Guilbault, he was affectionately known as “Marsh” or “Rosey” by the many friends who cherished him throughout his life. He spent nearly a century in the same home on Schiele Avenue, purchased by his parents shortly after his birth—a testament to his deep roots in the community.

He attended Hester Elementary School, Herbert Hoover Junior High School, and began high school at San Jose High in 1942. He later transferred to Abraham Lincoln High School, where he was part of its second graduating class. A lifelong supporter of San Jose State athletics, he especially loved following the basketball program.

After graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1944, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. During World War II, he was deployed to the Pacific Theater, where he fought with courage and determination in the Battle of Okinawa—one of the most intense and pivotal campaigns of the war. His service was a defining chapter of his life, and he carried immense pride in having stood for freedom and country. His legacy of bravery and dedication will forever be remembered.

He devoted 40 years to the City of San Jose, maintaining its parks and public spaces with pride and care. He was an original member of the grounds crew at Happy Hollow Park and spent most of his career at St. James Park. Known for his warm smile and engaging personality, he became a familiar face to judges, attorneys, politicians, and passersby alike. During this time, he formed a lifelong friendship with John “Pop” Popovich, head of the Parks and Recreation Department.

He was especially proud of being part of the original grounds crew at San Jose Municipal Stadium in 1947 and was its last surviving member. In 2016, at age 90, he was honored by the San Jose Giants with the ceremonial first pitch.

He had a passion for conversation, especially about sports. He knew the starting lineup of every local football, basketball and professional baseball team of the 40’s and 50’s. He possessed an almost photographic memory for television, Hollywood stars, movies, and local history. He also enjoyed performing in local theater productions, showcasing his thespian talents. His mind remained sharp until the very end.

One of the decisions he held most dear was made on Christmas Day in 1989, when he chose to give up alcohol. He quit cold turkey and never drank again. Though he missed the camaraderie of sharing drinks and sports talk at the bar, he believed that this choice allowed him to enjoy the long and fulfilling life he was blessed with.

He will be deeply missed by his many friends and his sole surviving family member, cousin Carol Guilbault. He especially enjoyed walking through the Rose Garden Alameda office complex, dropping in for visits, sharing lunch at the office deli, or dining at his favorite restaurant, Original Joe’s.

Heartfelt thanks go to his devoted caregivers, Meliame and Sandy, who made his final years comfortable and joyful. Special appreciation also goes to his close friends—Anita, Susan, Ana, Gary, Drew, Matt, Ted, and Steve—who regularly visited and called to lift his spirits.

Services

Visitation: Thursday, September 25, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Funeral Mass: 2:00 PM at Oak Hill Cemetery, San Jose

Interment: ~3:15 PM

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marshal’s memory to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation or the Marine Corps League Foundation.

arshal B Rosenthal, age 99 passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025.