Marcelino Marrero, Sr., 76, formerly of Waltham, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at his home. His former wife, Carmen Rivera, predeceased him in 2021.

Born, raised, and educated in Villalba, Puerto Rico, Marcelino was the beloved son of the late Pablo and Cristina (Torres) Marrero. He honorably served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War, a period of service that shaped his resilience and pride in his heritage.

Over the course of his career, Marcelino worked for various companies, contributing his talents and strong work ethic wherever he went. He specifically worked at Standard Thompson and then eventually went to work for himself and started his own business that he was truly passionate about, landscaping.

A proud and faithful member of St. Charles Borromeo Church in Waltham, Marcelino held his faith close to his heart. His devotion to the church was unwavering and guided the way he lived—treating others with kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Marcelino was a man of many passions. A true classic car enthusiast, he especially loved the Chevy Chevelle and found great joy attending car shows. An avid student of U.S. history, he remained intellectually curious throughout his life, often studying and sharing what he learned with others.

He was the heart of his family—a man with a quick wit and infectious sense of humor who could always make people laugh. He was caring, generous, and loving, with a heart of gold. Never one to shy away from sharing his thoughts, Marcelino's honesty and strong opinions were a defining part of his charismatic personality.

Marcelino was financially astute and outgoing. A die-hard Boston sports fan, he proudly rooted for the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots, and Celtics through thick and thin.

In his later years, Marcelino found happiness in his home in Kissimmee, Florida, where he dedicated countless hours to landscaping and grooming his yard. It was a true labor of love and a talent he took great pride in.

Marcelino's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, humor, and loyalty.

He is survived by his five children: Marcelino Marrero, Jr. and his wife Joanie of Marlborough; Joseph Marrero and his wife Jennifer of Waltham; Ivan Marrero and his wife Cheryl of Clinton; and daughters Marilyn and Milagros Marrero, both of Waltham. He also leaves two brothers, Jesus Antonio Marrero and Ramon Marrero, both of Puerto Rico; and eight sisters: Zoraida Marrero of Waltham, and Marine, Edith, Clorinda, Carmen, Ana Marrero, Eva Perez, and Nereida Marrero, all of Puerto Rico.

Marcelino was the cherished grandfather of Alyssa, Jaleena, Janiah, Jilliana, Jahvari, Felicia, Marcus, and Cyrus, and the proud great-grandfather of 9 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his grandson, Hector. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will deeply miss him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 22, at 10:00am, Immaculate Conception Church, 11 Prospect Street, Marlborough. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham. Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 21, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough.

All are invited to sign Marcelino's online guestbook at collinsfuneral.com.