Alfonso Michael Marquez

Al was born on April 24, 1936 in Knights Landing, CA to a Mexican immigrant farmworker family. He was one of 11 children. His parents raised all 11 children to receive a formal education, to be law-abiding and gainfully employed citizens.

He was called to active duty and served in the Navy starting on November 20^th, 1959 and received an honorable discharge in 1961. He joined the Sacramento Police Department in 1963, retiring as a Sergeant after 28 years of service. He pursued his college degree during that time and received his 4-year degree in Criminal Justice from Cal State University in May 1976.

Al was highly regarded and well-liked by his colleagues at Sacramento PD who remember him as “one of the best” and a great sergeant. The way his colleagues describe Al are all qualities his friends and family will recognize immediately. In their words, Al was a good and honorable man -- dependable, conscientious, kind, gentle, cheerful, intelligent, friendly, and considerate. He was the same humble, hardworking, fair-minded person everywhere he went-- at home, with friends, and at work as a police officer.

Al was an avid reader, with a particular love of astronomy, WWII and Civil War history. He was interested in world history and other cultures. He was in awe whether he was traveling to China, various countries in Europe, Canada, or camping throughout the US. He loved to eat just about anything, other favorite things were coffee and the newspaper-- and if it was a machine, or something he could tinker with or build -- he was interested. He had six children-- five from his first marriage, and one stepson. He is remembered and missed by his siblings, children, in-laws, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren.

Al had poor health for almost 12 years. He was cared for by a team of dedicated and compassionate doctors at Kaiser. Because he was immunocompromised, he could not go out and socialize as he did when he was in good health. But he was content at home with his books, war movies, documentaries, and with his loving and devoted wife of almost 50 years at his side. He passed away on July 4^th at home with his family—a fitting day for a man dedicated to serving his country and community.

He will be missed by all. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to all those who have expressed their support and sent such touching tributes to Al during this difficult time.