Michael Marques

Michael “Mike” Marques, age 77, passed away in Naples, FL, on March 13th, 2024.  Born on November 8, 1946, in Newport, RI, he was the son of Manuel and Agnes Marques.  
After graduating from Suffolk University with a Bachelors of Science in biology and chemistry, Michael enlisted in the United States Air Force, completing officer training school and service as a site missile commander, earning captain rank.  Mike had many talents, but he excelled in business, and supported his family by dedicating three decades in commercial lending, culminating to Executive Vice President in several New England banks before ending his career as Director of Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.

Upon retiring in Naples, Mike enjoyed the beach, traveling, and afternoons by the pool with his friend Richard Halliday, discussing news, debating politics, and listening to their favorite music. Before his illness, he was an active member of St. FInbarr’s Knights of Columbus and served on Verona Walk HOA’s finance committee for several years.

Mike’s legacy lives on through his wife, Wanda Marques of the home; his three children, Michael (Becky) of South Carolina, Erin Cominole (Matt) New York, and Sommer Baker (Michael) of Florida; and five amazing and talented grandchildren, Kyla, Emma, Noah, Ava and Paige. Mike is further survived by his siblings, Mary (Matilda) Mendiola (RI), Anna Pelletier (RI),  Manuel Marques (RI), Joseph Marques (PA) and Linda Chaves (RI), and many nieces and nephews. 
He is preceded in death by baby daughter, Melissa; his parents; brother, Vasco Marques; beloved nephew, Charlie Chaves; best friend, Richard Halliday; parents-in-law, Norman and Margaret Becker; and sisters-in-law, Patty Shifflebein and Kathy Goad.

A viewing is scheduled March 25, from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Fuller Funeral Home East, 4735 Tamiami Trail East, Naples Florida; followed by 1:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. FInbarr’s Church, 13520 Tamiami Trail East, with Father Leo Smith presiding. Livestreaming available at www.stfinbarr.org.  Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. March 26 at South Florida National Cemetery - East Coast, 6501 FL-7, Wellington, Florida, with military honors presented by the United State Air Force Honor Guard. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Everglades Community Food Pantry, P.O. Box 177, attention Connie Barker, Everglades City, FL 34139.