Joseph M. Marks

Joseph M. Marks, 90, of Roanoke, Va., died Friday, May 21, 2010, in Roanoke. He was born in 1920 in Knoxville, Tenn. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee. He lived most of his life in Lexington, Ky., where he raised a family while holding a series of management positions in local businesses. Joe was an office manager for New York Life when he retired at the age of 80. His passions were the theater and opera. Joe was involved with Studio Players, Lexington's amateur theater company, as an actor and board member for more than 50 years. His love of opera covered eight decades and made him an expert on the works of Wagner and the great performances of the 20th century. Since moving to Roanoke in 2008, he did not miss a production of Opera Roanoke. Joe Marks was a member of Temple Emanuel. He was predeceased by his longtime companion, Norman Parks. He is survived by son, Jeffrey Marks and daughterin-law, Roxanne Marks, of Roanoke; and son, Neil Marks and daughter-in-law, Pam Marks, of Oxford, Ohio; three grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild. A memorial service will be held 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 24, 2010, at Temple Emanuel after which the family will receive friends at home. Those who would like to make a contribution in his memory are asked to consider Opera Roanoke, 1 Market Square, 2nd Floor, Roanoke, Va. 24011. Arrangements by Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100.