Ben Marquez Salazar

Ben Marquez SalazarMay 17, 1947 – March 13, 2026Ben Marquez Salazar, 78 of Union, New Jersey, passed away on March 13, 2026, at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.Ben was born on May 17, 1947, in Dingle, Iloilo, Philippines, to Sergio Salazar and Andrea Marquez Salazar. He was raised in Iloilo, where he was known from a young age to be smart, hardworking, as well as someone who enjoyed life with his friends. He earned his law degree from Ateneo de Manila University School of Law and practiced law in the Philippines before immigrating to the United States in the early 1980s.At age 33, Ben married his childhood crush, who would become the love of his life. On December 22, 1980, he wed Judy "Ode" Cordero in Cabatuan, Iloilo, Philippines, beginning a marriage that lasted over 45 years—defined by deep devotion, mutual respect, and love. After their marriage, Ben immigrated to the United States in the early 1980s, where they built their life together in New Jersey.Ben built a life centered on hard work and dedication to his family. He worked as a data manager at the Union Public Library and also simultaneously held part-time positions as a manager at Cost Cutters and with American Greetings. He took pride in providing for his family and was respected for his strong work ethic.He was a devoted husband and father, and is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his children, Anne Millicent Salazar and Ben Anthony Salazar; and his sister, Dr. Rosena Salazar Custodio. He is also survived by many in-laws, nieces and nephews, too numerous to list. He was predeceased by his parents, Sergio and Andrea Salazar.Ben was a man of quiet strength, known for his reserved and gentle nature. He valued his Roman Catholic faith and was deeply devoted to both his immediate and extended family. He will be remembered for his generosity, intelligence, and humility. He was well-loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.Friends and family are invited to a visitation for Ben on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Galante Funeral Home, 2800 Morris Avenue, Union, New Jersey.A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. at St. Michael's Church, 1212 Kelly Street, Union, New Jersey. Those attending mass are asked to meet directly at church.Burial will follow at St. Gertrude's Cemetery, 53 Inman Avenue, Colonia, New Jersey.A repast will be held afterward at Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet, 690 Oak Tree Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ 07080.