Efrain Portillo Marinez East Lansing "Pop," age 87, died January 4, 2010. Born in Mexico, and raised in Crystal City, Texas by his father and two other brothers. He married his childhood sweetheart, Frances, in 1944 in Crystal City. In 1939 he settled in Michigan, working and managing area farms. He was an active member of the Lansing Farm Workers Committee and participated in marches alongside his friend Cesar Chavez in support of farm laborers. He managed farms in Texas with his father and brothers and worked at the Morrill Farm in Bath, MI. As patriarch of one of the first Mexican-American families in the Lansing area, he was a founding member of Cristo Rey Parish, the Comite Patriotico (Mexican Patriotic Committee) and active in the Cursillos movement. He had a lifelong commitment to and provided leadership for social justice, receiving several awards supporting that effort including a proclamation by Governor William Milliken. He retired from Lindell Drop Forge in 1966. He strived for diversity and inclusion, and instilled that inspiration in his children and grandchildren. He was a role model for so many, an incredible father, a man of the Earth, a man of faith and so much more. He was preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Juanita (Portillo) Marinez; brothers, Ladislado P. Marinez and Felix Campos; sister, Frances Campos; and son, Efrain. Surviving are his wife, Francisca; children, Juan (Diana), Rafael, Salome (Dora), Lupe (Tom) Izzo, Rodrigo, Rodolfo (Beth), Marina (Carl) Szypula, Rebecca (Tom) Pulick, Guillermo (Lauren), Roberto (Mary) and Ana (Frank) O'Donnell; 27 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, Teodoro (Blanca) Marinez. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, January 8, 10:30 a.m. at Cristo Rey Catholic Church, 201 W. Miller, Lansing. The family will receive friends at Cristo Rey Catholic Church, Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cristo Rey Building Fund, 201 W. Miller, Lansing, MI 48910 or American Cancer Society, Coaches vs Cancer, 3100 West Road, Bldg 2, Suite 3, East Lansing, MI 48823 in memory of Mr. Marinez. www.gorslineruncimanfuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
January 17, 2010
i heard today of the passing of mr. marinez and would like to send my condolences to the family. I remember his smile at church. May God give you the memories of him to sustain you. i always felt he supported education and the betterment of his people. becky (reyes) (soza) delgado,saginaw, michigan
January 12, 2010
Gilbert Dominguez
Dear Panchita and children of Efrain, we are sadden by your loss of a great man and friend. We have some wonderful memories of our trip to Mexico City with other church members but specially the ones with you. May the good Lord give the peace and strength to go on you have a wonderful family. Please express our sympathy to Juan and Lupe, whom we remember the most. Gilbert and Mary Dominguez family, Mercedes, Texas formerly from Lansing.
January 11, 2010
Jim and Karen Shepherd
Jim just called me quite saddened as he read Frank's obituary in the Towne Courier today. I joined Jim in his surprise and saddness. We were glad that we got to see Frank this summer at Rod's house. Our hearts go out to the Marinez family.
January 9, 2010
Dale Pretzer
Chelle called from Rio Vista to tell us of your loss. We are so sorry to hear bout Mr. Marinez. He was always very nice to us.
Dale & Yvonne Pretzer
Your past Alton Road neighbors
January 8, 2010
Mary/Andy Arambula
Dear Comadre Panchita and all of your children, Your compadre Andy and I are sadden by the loss of Compadre. May the lving God fill your hearts his love in this hard times. Juan thank you for sharing this summer on your fathers health and your mom. Our prayers are with all.
January 8, 2010
We are so sorry to hear od the passing of Mr, Marinez, he will be missed by many. Our love and prayers are with you and the family.
Charlie and Virginia Spagnuolo
January 8, 2010
The Seiberts
As you gather today to honor your husband, father, grandfather, uncle, ...., we wish to extend our sympathy and condolences to ALL of you. While we never were fortunate enough to meet 'Pop', we have heard many wonderful things. God bless you all at this most difficult time!
January 8, 2010
Freda Bunt-Cruel
Willy and Robert-what a foundation of love to grow up in. Hugs to you all.
May your father rest in peace.
January 7, 2010
Dolores (Lulu) Velasquez
Marinez family so sorry to hear of your husband and fathers passing. He will be truly missed by all who knew and have had the great pleasure of meeting. He was a true friend to my parents and to the rest of my family. May God bless Frances and the whole Marinez family. All our love and prayers. The Velasquez Family
January 7, 2010
Liz (Calderone) Holmberg
My mom called to share the news. I have so many great memories of time shared with all of you, and your Dad's incredible smile will never be forgotten. Sorry I won't be able to attend the funeral service tomorrow, it's been way too long since I've seen any of you. You are all in my thoughts & prayers.
January 7, 2010
My prayers are with you all. Joan Gross
January 7, 2010
Mary Lee Caruso
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. God bless the entire Marinez family!!
January 7, 2010
Dick & Mary Jane Northrup
Tom, Lupe, Beth, Rudy, Willy, Lauren and the entire Marinez family. Let not the passing of a loved one extinguish the bright shinning light that he brought to your family and your multitude of friends his memory will live on the the hearts of not just the family but to everyone one who's life he touched may the blessings of the lord forever be with your family.
January 7, 2010
To the Marinez Family - Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope your Faith and wonderful memories will be of great comfort especially during this time. Wendy Davis & Joey, Catherine Anderson & The Schoen Family
January 7, 2010
Kim Allman - Needham
Sal, Lupe and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Remember that all the wonderful times and laughs with your Dad, will stay in your heart and be carried with you always.
January 7, 2010
Frances,
Mike and I enjoyed meeting you both at the Isso's home, and we were sorry to hear of Mr. Marinez's passing. We enjoyed talking with such an interesting man. He loved his family dearly and was very proud of each and every person. Judy and Mike Santambrogio, Wendy Brown's parents. Denver, CO
January 7, 2010
ted de leon
Senor Marinez was a mentor to many Chicanos at Quinto Sol, El Renacimiento, and Trabajodores Por La Raza. He was like a father to me, where he was a neighbor to the Mireles, where I stayed while I pursued my degree at MSU and not a more wonderful family have I met then the Marinez.'s Senor Marinez-Por La Causa
January 7, 2010
Jerry Tubbs
Willy and Robert,
My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Looking at your father's picture, I can see where you both got your great smiles. Take care and I hope to see you in the Fall.
January 7, 2010
I can see where Lupe gets her drive and commitment from....so nice to have a dad that you can be so proud of and, looking at the last names of the married daughters, inclusion was clearly important in that family. Tom is truly fortunate to have married into such a great family. Ed and Sandy
January 6, 2010
Arnold,Paulina Nerio
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
January 6, 2010
Marisa Marinez
My heart goes out to all in the family. But remember his spirit will always be with all of you and this can only make you stronger as a family. God has blessed all of us who had the chance to have known him in our life time. For my family tio and tia was always thought of because of their loving hearts. I love you all and you are in my prayers.
January 6, 2010
To the Marinez family-
Our heart and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the memories of your time together bring you peace in the days ahead.
Greg & Rachel Michaud
January 6, 2010
Bobby Rosas
To Rob and the Marinez family,
I too have also lost my father and know what you must be feeling. I remember many stories about the family, your Mom and Dad, and hold those memories dear to my heart. Someone once told me, "Your father is never gone, for the memories will always be in your heart." This statement is what still keeps me going everyday. Alway's remember the good times, the laughs and the love you shared. Let me offer a peice of comfort that my father told me, "You are never alone when the brothers and sisters come together, joy and the memories of your father will never be forgotten. Prayers and blessings to the family during your time of grief.
The Rosas Family, (Bobby Rosas)
January 6, 2010
Dear Marinez Family,
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. He was a fine man. May you find strength as you reflect on the memories that he has left behind. You are in my prayers.
Love, Bruce Welmers
Houston, TX
January 6, 2010
Dear Marinez Family,
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. He was a fine man. May you find strength as you reflect on the memories that he has left behind. You are in my prayers.
Love, Bruce Welmers
Houston, TX
January 6, 2010
Ray & Irma Mireles
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
January 6, 2010
Genie (Brunner) Zerbinos
Ana, Willy, Lupe, Juan & all the Marinez family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My son Mark always felt such a special connection with your family. Mark and I always had great respect for your parents and the wonderful children they raised. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you all.
January 6, 2010
Naomi Gunderson
Dearest Marinez Family;Our deepest heartfelt sympathies over the loss of your Beloved Father. It was such an honor meeting all of you in September. You welcomed my parents, Israel & Maria Palacios, my sister, Mary Frances and I into your home and received us as family. The interaction of your family demonstrated love, bonding & caring that is fostered by loving parents. Your Efrain & Frances are so blessed to have such a beautiful family.Efrain has and will always hold a special place in my father’s heart. They shared so much as children, which bonded them in maintaining a life time friendship that included their spouses. Your loss has inspired us to treasure each day with our father. We will always remember your Dad and your beautiful family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.Sincerely,Naomi Palacios-GundersonDaughter of Israel Palacios Sr. in behalf of the entire Palacios Family.
January 6, 2010
Jose Estrada
Lupe and family. We are very sorry for your loss. I recently lost my mother so I know how you must feel. Your father contributed so much to our church and our community. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jose Manuel y Graciela Estrada
January 6, 2010
Esmeralda Clements
My condolences to the Martinez family. While living in Michigan and knowing Efrain I always loved his great big smile. May God keep you and your family close in his arms and give you strength in your healing process. Esmeralda (Perez) Clements, Houston Tx.
January 6, 2010
Lauri Stephens
Juan and family,
I'm sorry to read about the passing of your father. Take care and comfort in knowing that I am thinking of you and your family. Cherish the memories.
Lauri Stephens
January 6, 2010
Reuben Ybarra
My deepest sympathy to the family for your loss.
It was an honor to meet Mr. Marinez on my visit to East Lansing in July of 2008. I have great memories of visiting with him and listening to the many stories of his life and the family. It is such a small world, to find out while talking with him, that he and my mother were from the same small town in Mexico.
God bless the family and you will be in my prayers.
January 6, 2010
Mr. Marinez was a great example of a hardworking family man. He leaves an honorable legacy of a loving, dedicated family. Wendy Brown, Lansing Michigan
January 6, 2010
Sylvia Trevino
Lupe and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, your father was a great man always remember all the good memories you had with him as you were growing up. I know what you all are going through as i just lost my husband last April. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family, your friend
Sylvia Solis Trevino
January 6, 2010
Glenna Fay (Morrill) Waters
Frances and family,
I was so sorry to hear of Franks passing from Dad yesterday. I feel for the whole family, it is so hard to lose a parent. Our prayers are with the whole Marinez Family.
January 6, 2010
Juan and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Didn't know you dad but I do know of how hard it is to lose someone so close to your heart. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Kathy Jones
Rm 11 Ag Hall
Showing 1 - 36 of 36 results
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more