Donald Ray “Buzz” Marquis, loving husband and father, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2020 in his home at the age 85.
Buzz was born March 4, 1935 in Leila, Missouri to G.B. and Oma Marquis. He graduated from Roscoe High School in 1953. Buzz served in the US Army from March 6, 1958 to March 4, 1960. During that time, he was stationed in South Korea for 1 year and discharged with the rank of Sergeant. He remained in the Army Reserves until 1964. When he returned home, he married Beverly Ann Shireman on April 15, 1961. In August of 1961 Buzz and Bev opened Buzz’s Market in Collins, MO. They raised two children, Ray and Kristi.
He was a 63-year member of the Roscoe Masonic Lodge Circle #342. Buzz served on the Collins Village Counsel for over 30 years; he worked hard to establish the water system and later the sewage system including paved roads. Buzz helped organize and was a charter member of the Collins Lions Club. He was also a charter member of the Collins Fire Department and a charter and active member of the Collins Fire Board.
Buzz and his family spent a lot of time with friends at the lake. He was an avid water skier and would teach anyone how to ski. He had an unusual abundance of patience for anyone who wanted to learn. As time passed Buzz’s love for the lake gave way to a love of touring the country on his motorcycle with family and friends. During his travels he toured all 50 states along with all provinces of Canada. One of his favorite trips included an annual trip to Louisiana for a crawfish boil then on to Pensacola to camp, deep sea fish, and eat oysters. Buzz enjoyed snow skiing and going on cruises with his family. He was a lifelong believer in God and was baptized on September 9, 2020.
He was the cornerstone of his family and his community, both of which he loved dearly. Both of which will miss him greatly.
Buzz was preceded in death by his parents, G.B. and Oma; brother, Gerald Lavern; parents- in-law, H.J. and Garnet Shireman; brother-in-law, James Evans. He is remembered with love by his wife, Beverly; his two children, Ray (Donna) Marquis and Kristi (Doug) Delp; his sisters, Dorothy “Sis” Williams, Lois Fay “Suzie” Evans, Donis Ross (Don), Doris Hart (John); his uncle Russell (Imogene) Marquis; 8 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and one on the way; numerous nieces and nephews.