Raymond J. Marro

Dad, above all else, was a family man. Everything he did and every choice he made, came from a place of love and devotion to those he cared for most. He was a loving husband who stood by his wife Patricia, through every season of their lives — their marriage was a shining example of commitment, partnership, and deep affection. Together, they built a home that overflowed with warmth, love and a sense of belonging.

To his sons, he was more than a father — he was a mentor and a guide. He taught us how to work hard, to stand tall, and to live with integrity. Whether it was through stern conversations, a loving hug, or one of his famous “life lessons", Dad always found a way to teach and get his point across. His wisdom shaped us into the men we became.

He was immensely proud of his family — not just as a father, but as a grandfather and great-grandfather. You could see his eyes light up when he talked about his grandchildren, regularly sharing stories of their accomplishments. He loved watching each of them transform from beautiful babies, loving children, energetic teenagers and the pinnacle of successful, respected adults, always offering his guidance, experiences and wisdom along the way.

Professionally, Dad was deeply revered. Starting his own printing business at age 29, without money, experience or employees, he built a reputation on integrity, work ethic, honesty and his ability to lead by example. He built success not just through skill, but through relationships — people trusted him, and for good reason. He made sure that each evening he could confidently rest his head on his pillow knowing he had a full day of doing his best.

Leisurely, Dad enjoyed being on the golf course, enjoying the sunshine on beautiful summer days here in New York, or on the Florida links. He would play often with his wife Patricia, his closest friends and his "men’s club" buddies. But not too much out-shined the enjoyment he felt by playing a round with his sons and grandsons. As one fellow golfer pointed out; “what could be better? a round of golf on a beautiful day, drinking a cold beer, smoking a good cigar, with your son, grandsons and…. beating them all. All at the ripe age of 80!” His final round was extremely special and a loving memory for everyone; a Father’s Day outing that included Miles, his great grandson.

A FOUR GENERATION DAY!!

Dad lived a full life — not because of what he owned or where he traveled or what he achieved, but because of how he loved. He left behind not only memories, but a legacy: a legacy of love, respect, and strength.

As we say goodbye, we also say thank you — for everything he gave us, everything he taught us, and everything he was. His presence will always be felt in our lives, in the lessons we pass on, the traditions we keep, and the love we share.

We will miss him deeply, but we take comfort knowing that his spirit lives on in each of us and he is now rejoicing with his wife Patricia and son Raymond Jr.

Thank you, Dad — for everything.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to:

St. Jude’s (stjude.org)

The Tunnel for Towers Foundation (t2t.org)