Manuel O. Marquez

Manuel O. Marquez was born on May 31, 1929 in Douglas, Arizona. He passed away on May 20, 2022 in Bakersfield, California, where he lived life to the fullest, raised his family, worked hard, played hard, retired and continued to play hard.

Manuel is survived by his wife of 70 years, Irene Marquez. He had 23 brothers and sisters. He had 3 daughters, 2 sons in laws, 5 sons and 2 daughters in laws. He had more than a dozen grandchildren plus their spouses. He had numerous great grandchildren. He patiently and happily taught them all how to fish, hunt, play games, and many other life lessons. He loved every one of his family members in a large and special way.

He dedicated his work life to Granite Construction. He proudly drove us all around Kern County to show off the work he did with them. When he retired, there was a big party where everyone who walked up to me said,"Oh you're Manuel's granddaughter?! He's an amazing man." I definitely knew this already.

When he wasn't working, he loved to be on outdoor adventures at home or away with his family. He also loved to hunt and fish with his friends, who were also his family. I can't tell you how many times any one of these friends would come up to me to share how my Grandpa saved their lives, both figuratively and literally.

He had the best smile and laugh, and lived to make everyone around him smile and laugh with him. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed by many. "A good heart has stopped beating, but a heart that has touched so many lives can't help but live on in those it loved."