Michele Frausto-Marquardt

Michele Frausto-Marquardt of Joliet, age 61, passed away at St. Joseph Hospital after a devastatingly brief illness while surrounded by her loving family on January 2, 2025. Michele was born in Joliet, IL, the daughter of Richard and Pamela (nee Phelps) Frausto, on November 19, 1963.

Michele lived her life with steadfast commitment to faith, family, Dodger baseball, and caring for animals. While the order in which those commitments were prioritized wasn’t always clear, the importance of all of those commitments to Michele were unquestionable. She helped to provide for the family that she held so dear by working as a member of the meat cutters union as a longtime employee of Dominick’s Food Stores. She was completely dedicated to her Catholic faith, and was a proud practicing member of St. Joseph Parish. She was the consummate Dodgers fan, who hosted two different Dodger Fan Groups on Facebook, where she was known to provide detailed play by play of the games to fellow fans. She was sure to maintain any and every subscription necessary in order to never miss a game. Her devotion as a mother and grandmother was beyond question, and she loved to cook and bake not only for her family, but also enough to share with all who may cross her path in need. Finally, Michele was the kindest shepherd to all of her many pets. She always showed consideration and concern for all animals and birds, whether wild or tame. Michele’s family is preparing for the many challenges that a future without her physical presence will present, but they know that her spiritual presence will always serve to inspire, guide, and protect them as they move forward with the intent of sharing all that was the best of her with the rest of the world.

Michele was preceded in death by her grandfather Pedro and her grandmother Trinidad Frausto, as well as her brother Gary Frausto.

She is survived by her parents Richard and Pamela, her loving husband of twenty-five years Paul Marquardt, her sons; Zachary (Maricela) Ritsos and Johnathan Marquardt, her two grandchildren Brandon and Jacob Ritsos, her sister Debra (Mark) Phipps, her brother Rick (Kim) Frausto, sister-in-law Deanna (the late Gary) Frausto, sister Renee Frausto, and brother Greg (Nikki) Frausto. Many extended family members, friends, and other loved ones too numerous to list, especially including her beloved furry and feathered friends, also survive.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, with a chapel service including prayers, eulogies, and an opportunity for sharing of memories at 6:00 pm, at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL 60435. Per Michele’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and Michele’s Earthly remains will reside under the protective care of her husband and family.