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Michael Marrese Obituary
Michael graduated Mullen High School in Denver, CO as salutatorian in 1968. He graduated Princeton in 1972 and obtained a PhD in economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1975. He joined the Northwestern University Department of Economics and remained until 1992, when he left to work at the IMF and World Bank. He then served at JPMorgan 1998-2016 as Vice President of Global and Emerging Markets.
He was devoted husband to Michelle Lamarche Marrese from 1986 until she preceded him in death in 2016. He is survived by his brother Thomas (Andrea) Marrese, his sister Valerie (Marshall) Pearson, uncle Dominic Calbi, nephew Chad Pearson, and nieces Chantal Woods, Alena Gernander, and Amanda Bunker. He is godfather to 17 children and missed by all who loved him deeply.
A memorial service followed by mass will be held at 12:45pm on Saturday, January 11th at St. Monica's Church 413 E. 79th Street, New York. For more information, please call 719-237-5091.
For several decades, Mr. Marrese was a generous donor the charities listed below. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting one of these organizations or one that is important to you.
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Mullen High School
Misericordia Heart of Mercy (Chicago)
The American Red Cross
Mercy Home for Boys and Girls (Chicago)
Princeton University
Society for the Propagation of Faith
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Milena Kalinovska
June 13, 2025
I am very sorry to learn about Mike´s passing. He was a special friend of my husband Dr. Jan Vanous, who was President of PlanEcon in Washington DC specialising in analysts of economies on Central and Eastern Europe. Jan passed away of cancer in 2021. Milena Kalinovska, Jan´s wife
John Cooper
June 5, 2025
Our family got to know Mike and Michelle in Moscow in 1987. I was a Fulbright lecturer in U.S. history and Mike was an IREXer working on the Soviet economy. Believe it or not, this was an extended honeymoon for these newlyweds. They helped make the experience much more interesting and enjoyable for us, and our daughter Betsy, who turned sixteen then, became close to Michelle. We continued to see each other fairly often later, particularly when they were at Northwestern and we had returned to Madison. I always marveled at Mike's drive and energy, and it blew my mind that he learned Hungarian----the only person not of that background to do it. The last time we saw Mike was at the memorial service for Michelle that he organized in Vermont. Betsy spoke there about how much Michelle had meant to her over the years. A mutual friend once called Mike "a force of nature,' which he was, but also so much more. We miss him terribly.
John Cooperr
MARK HARTIG
April 25, 2025
Mike and I didn't know each other well at Mullen High School. We traveled in different circles! However, I admired him immensely from afar. He and I talked extensively at our 40-year reunion.
It was a though had been "best buddies" all through high school! What a great guy!
Melvin Valdez
March 4, 2025
He was one of the finest human being ,I have ever met. He was a very giving man with time and money. I was lucky to be a friend of his family all my life. He always had a genuine interest in what was going on in your life. For me it was always a pleasure to see and here from him. I could sit here and tell endless stories,but 1 in particular stands out for me.
One evening in Denver Mrs. Marrese, my mom, Michael and I went for a early Sunday dinner. The 4 of us went to this Italian restaurant and enjoyed pizza. Our mother told us stories of raising their children, as we lived across the street from each other. The joy on our faces were not only for the good time we were having together. It was also the love these 2 families had for each other.
I could spend more time on Michael. If you were lucky enough to know him, you met one of God's greatest creations. To know him was to love life. God bless you Micheal and give our moms a big hug.
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Chiara Bentivogli
January 16, 2025
Michael was my tutor at Northwestern, and a long time friend.
He was a brilliant professor and a person with a memorable generosity.
We shared many happy moments and he supported me in difficult times.
The last time we met he was not in good health and yet he showed his great sense of humor and deep interest in world events.
I will fondly remember him.
Bruce Petersen
January 13, 2025
Michael was a close friend when I was a struggling assistant professor at Northwestern University. Michael was incredibly supportive, which made all the difference. He was impactful in the lives of so many people, including me. Such a wonderful giving person.
Bruce Petersen
Isaac M. Sonin
January 12, 2025
Such a sad news. Michael helped me a lot when I first time came to Northwestern in 1990 as a visitor from Russia and we (me and my wife Natasha) became friends with him and Michelle, met them in London, when he worked there, stayed a night in their house in USA. Michael was remarkable person, full of energy. M and M were a brilliant couple, maybe too brilliant on a side of Michelle (I read and keep her remarkable book on Russian women of 18 century), that led her to her tragic death. I tried to contact Michael a few times after that but w/o success.
Isaac M. Sonin, Professor of Math. at UNC at Charlotte; [email protected]
Greg Moerschel
January 11, 2025
Michael Marrese was my professor, friend and mentor. He was brilliant, kind and inspirational. It´s a heartbreaking loss for those fortunate to have known him.
He always made you feel like you were special when in his presence. You came away truly inspired after spending time with him. It was a gift. He was endlessly interested in others and only talked about himself when asked. Always curious, always engaged. He had incredible integrity. He was a fantastic instructor - patient yet tough. You wanted to do well for him more than for yourself.
As a professor, he had this tiny, precise handwriting that I still remember. When he lectured, no time was wasted. He had so much to say - in fact he gleefully had to contain his enthusiasm at times. He inspired all his students in a very constructive, friendly way.
I remember staying with him in London while I was an equity analyst in the mid 90s. He insisted I bring all my research reports to dinner so we could read them together. He didn´t have to do that! We laughed and drank great wine at an Indian restaurant. The next morning he got me out of bed and we ran and did push ups in Hyde Park until I thought I was going to throw up. Such great memories.
I recall bringing a stack of work to read over dinner one night at my favorite Italian spot on 84th and 2nd. I had introduced Michael to the restaurant previously. Just as my appetizer arrived, I spotted Mike and Michelle in a corner laughing and canoodling over a bottle of wine. Needless to say, I joined them. There wasn´t a silent moment until the staff politely locked the door behind us. I can truthfully say that he was the most engaging, interesting, loving and thoughtful person I´ve ever met. I am a better person because I met him.
Kenneth E. Schaefle
January 11, 2025
In 1976 Michael Marrese began to live with our family in Evanston , Illinois as he began his career as an Assistant Professor of Economics at Northwestern University. Almost immediately our family of four (mother, father and two sons in grade school) became an extended family of five.
Michael quickly became a part of our total family, but he had a different relationship with each of us. He was like an older brother to our two sons and an excellent role model. He had a very positive influence on them from being competitive in sports to stressing the importance of academic excellence and the need for lifelong learning.
My wife was a retired English teacher and the two them engaged in many lengthy conversations about books they had both enjoyed. As a university professor I was teaching both undergraduate and graduate economics classes and Michael was very helpful to me, particularly in matters regarding the latest developments in macroeconomics.
The Schaefle family `s relationship with Michael has spanned a period of
49 years and he will be very much missed by all of us. May he rest in peace.
Julian Perkin
January 11, 2025
Michael, with his wonderful personality and infectious laugh, has been my close friend for thirty years - most notably during the 10+ years he spent in London till 2016, where we spent many fun evenings at my home and in restaurants, jazz clubs, et cetera. I spent the weekend with him in New York very recently in November and he was still great company and full of life (see photo). I am so pleased to have seen him then and earlier in the year in August. I will miss him greatly. A wonderful man.
Nora Szentivanyi
January 11, 2025
Michael was my long-time manager at JPMorgan and I valued him greatly as a mentor and a friend. He spent time to get to know my whole family and we would often go for walks and meals in Hampstead at the weekend. He was generous, kind and passionate. His optimism and energy were infectious and we will all miss him.
I´m sharing a photo of a Michael at my wedding party in September 2008 (!) where he was one of the few guests still dancing well into the early hours.
Stuart Brown
January 11, 2025
Michael has been my much admired colleague and friend over some four decades. Together with our mutual friend, Jurgen Odenius, we travelled parallel professional paths from academia to the International Monetary Fund to the capital markets in London, with a focus on Central and Eastern Europe during that region´s turbulent transition to market economies. Some of my fondest personal memories derive from my weekly Saturday, dawn to dusk walks with Jurgen and Michael through London neighborhoods and parks discussing everything under the sun, with periodic breaks at many of the city´s boisterous pubs. We also cherished our time together with spouses and my wife, Rachel singularly attributes to Michael the encouragement and confidence to pursue her uphill climb back to a tenure-track college appointment in the States after years away in Europe. Michael was a kind, generous compassionate and always stimulating friend, with an energy and force of personality that was unsurpassed. He left us much too soon and will be profoundly missed.
Dane Zabriskie
January 10, 2025
Mike with his Princeton roommates Doug Rohn, Joe Ciofalo, and Dane Zabriskie, 1972
Dane Zabriskie
January 10, 2025
Mike, fondly known by many as `M-squared´ or `Mike-the-Math-Major,´ was a constant during our time at Princeton, where we were roommates for several years. With distractions from campus political strife over the war (the draft, SDS, campus demonstrations, the student strike, occupation of campus buildings) to Princeton´s transition to coeducation, Mike´s steady focus provided balance amid those tumultuous times. In the evening hours, Mike was often away from `the room´, as we called our Princeton home, but he was not difficult to find. He could often be found in one of the classrooms in the Fine Math tower until the wee hours of the morning, doing one of the things that Mike did best--study. Mike was a rock of determination, humanity, and faith, qualities he carried with him throughout his life. Happily, it all paid off as is clear from his professional and humanitarian contributions. Mike´s legacy of focus and integrity will remain an inspiration to all who knew him. Dane Zabriskie, `72
Susie Terando Powen
January 10, 2025
Infectious laugh, quick wit and generous heart- Mike will be sorely missed.
Ignazio Visco
January 10, 2025
As Michael wrote in his last email to us, he was our "friend for almost 52 years". A very close friend indeed. Until two years ago we met several times every year, in Philadelhia and Rome, Paris and Washington, London and New York as well as in the Rocky Mountains and the Dolomites, alone as well as with Michelle. He was smart, dedicated and generous. And very much loved also by our daughters Giuliana, Francesca and Caterina. He will always be in our memories. Bianca and Ignazio Visco
Daniel Hamermesh
January 9, 2025
He was my RA at Princeton. A smart, nice kid who was a delight to be with. Too young. Dan Hamermesh
Beverly Mortensen
January 9, 2025
When Michael came to Northwestern, my husband had been in the Economics Department for 10 years. He and I connected easily because of our common Catholic backgrounds. I enjoyed being with an academic with my own moral sense. We would find ourselves at faculty parties in a corner with someone who had been alone...each finding our way there by a different route. He was smart, funny and rare good company. In 1989 we, he and Michelle and another couple spent a month in the Soviet Union. They were the hosts, and the Russian speakers for us all. It was a lovely time and one of great learning. After he moved to London we saw him only on visits, but we didn't miss a chance to share a meal with him. He will be greatly missed. Godspeed, Michael!
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
January 9, 2025
On behalf of Fr. Scott Donahue and Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Michael Marrese.
May the angels lead him into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome him and take him to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem.
Larry sanders
January 9, 2025
I was fortunate to work with Mike for several years at JPM...he was truly dedicated and the very best research colleague to work with. He was humble, honest and tireless. It was an honor to know him....
Larry Sanders
Gabriela C.
January 8, 2025
Michael was a kind, energetic, and passionate man. In 2023, my mom invited Michael over for Thanksgiving. He was full of joy and kindness. My favorite memory is watching Young Sheldon with him. We would laugh together at the same parts.My family and I grew fond of Michael. We will always love him. As we continue our lives, we will always remember Michael. He will live on in our hearts and our minds. May he rest in the arms of our Lord. We will see him again as the saints go marching in. As Jesus said "...I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die."
Balint Nemeth
January 8, 2025
Once upon a time, on a rainy night in Soho, London...
Michael Marrese stumbled upon a disorientated and thoroughly jet-lagged Japanese tourist, who spoke not a word of English. Michael, being Michael, took him under his wing and used his best Italian-American gesticulating to invite this lost soul to join us for dinner. Eventually we ended up in a top Sushi restaurant where Michael, again being Michael, knew EVERYONE AND THEIR MOTHER. You all know exactly the deal: "Good evening Kohana ... so nice to see you again ... how´s your son, Shinya settling into Uni back in Okinawa?" Typical Michael Marrese. Like he owned the joint.
As it soon transpired, however, the lost tourist turned out to be a famous musician of traditional instruments and the proprietor Kohana was amazed and shocked in equal measure that Michael had nonchalantly just popped in and delivered to her restaurant such a huge Japanese celebrity. Needless to say what followed remains one of the most remarkable culinary and cultural highlights of my life. Special bottles of Sake flowed like water; only the finest sashimi cuts were served up; and Kohana translated little nuggets of gold as they ping-ponged between Musician and our Michael.
In this little `droplet of water´, you can see the Ocean that was Michael Marrese. Warm, generous, and kind. Our friend and guide, who fell into Heaven way too soon!!
On a rainy Night in Soho...
Balint Nemeth
Joyce Chang
January 7, 2025
Michael was a force in research. He was passionate, energetic and committed to deeper understanding of macro issues. His enthusiasm was infectious.
His intellectual curiosity was so appreciated by colleagues at JPMorgan, investor clients and policymakers.
May he rest in eternal peace.
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
January 7, 2025
On behalf of Fr. Scott Donahue and Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Michael Marrese.
May the angels lead him into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome him and take him to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem.
Genia Sokolova
January 7, 2025
Michael was a rare mix of kindness, generosity and intelligence rolled into one. You will be sorely missed. Genia (JPMC)
Klaus H. Hessberger
January 6, 2025
Michael,
It has been a great honor to meet you both as a colleague at JPMorgan and as a devoted Catholic practitioner at St Mary`s church in Hampstead, London.
You had a big heart and always cared about the people. My wife and I will never forget your favourite Sunday morning Hampstead heath walks to Highgate after Church. RIP and our prayers are with you and your family. Klaus & Dagmar
Cristian Popa
January 6, 2025
I remember Michael as both a colleague and a friend. We shared numerous conversations over the years, touching on everything from economics to culture to daily issues, on the podium in front of audiences and over casual meals. His intensity regarding his intellectual work, passion for history and care for family, friends and associates remain with me. Condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones. May he rest in peace and may we remember him.
Mimi Terando
January 5, 2025
Michael had a very big impact on the life of the Terando Family. In the mid 70's, our Dad told us he was bringing a handball buddy home for dinner - boring. The buddy was Michael. He instantly captivated us by asking challenging questions and listening to our answers. Later on, he convinced our Dad that is was OK for Mom to go back to College. Dinner would still be on the table.
I saw him several times in NYC. He loved New York and loved sharing his favorite places and discovering new ones.
We always looked forward to spending time with Michael. He made it seem that anything was possible.
Ann Heinz
January 5, 2025
After meeting Dad on the handball court at Northwestern, Michael was a frequent guest at our dinner table. His humor was evermore and the whole family took great pleasure in being around him. We miss you Michael.
Rest In Peace.
Ann & Tom Heinz
Sr. Rosemary/Fr. Jack & the Residents of Misericordia
January 2, 2025
Our sympathy and special prayers for Michael and all his family and friends.
Tom Maycock
January 2, 2025
Michael was an important figure in my life, and I feel lucky to have had a chance to know him. He will be greatly missed by so many of us whose life he touched. Best wishes to all of his family and friends.
Scott Schaefle
January 2, 2025
Michael had a tremendous impact on me. When I was 10 years old, I started jogging, partly out of admiration of his running, 48 years later I still am. He helped me apply to colleges, and was a truly supportive friend as I grew up, got married, and started a family. He was encouraging, and enthusiastic. He was a treasured friend of my mothers, and our entire family. He is loved and missed.
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