Obituary of Steve Robert Marquardt

Steve Marquardt, aged 80, passed away on August 31, 2024, in St. Paul, MN after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He leaves behind a legacy as a devoted husband, father, brother, friend, and a pillar of his community. 

Steve was born in St. Paul and spent formative years in Mankato, MN and Hinsdale, IL. He returned to St. Paul to attend Macalester College, making lifelong friends and meeting his wife of 56 years, Judy. His educational journey continued at the University of Minnesota, earning Master’s degrees in History and Library Science, and culminating with his Ph.D. in History. Steve and Judy spent a magical season in Paris while Steve was conducting research for his dissertation. 

Steve’s professional journey took the family to New Mexico, Illinois, and Ohio, before he held leadership positions as Library Director at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire, and Dean of Libraries at South Dakota State University in Brookings . He developed many deep friendships along the way. Steve was widely appreciated for his intellect and quick wit. As a lifetime librarian, Steve was dedicated to books and read voraciously, mostly non-fiction. He kept up with current events and enjoyed often writing letters to the editor. 

Steve enjoyed biking, tennis, running, cross-country skiing, reading, and music, sharing his interests and his humor through clipping cartoons and articles for his loved ones. His biking adventures took him on The Ride Across Minnesota (TRAM) more than seven times with his riding buddies, as well as the Tour de Wyoming and a ride from Missoula to Bozeman in Montana. He was undaunted by mountains, both physical and metaphorical. 

Steve's life was marked by his commitment to making the world a better place for everyone. Steve was a passionate advocate for human rights, working closely with Amnesty International and local civil rights groups. In 2006 he was recognized by the Brookings Human Rights Commission with the Butler Human Rights Award, and in 2015 he received the Distinguished Citizen Award from Macalester College, given to alumni who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, achievement, and active involvement with their local community through their lifetime.  

Steve retired in 2006 to a home on the shores of Big Kandiyohi Lake in west central Minnesota, where the family had spent summers for years. He dedicated himself to continued letter-writing for Amnesty International and advocacy for free libraries in Cuba. He enjoyed daily walks, swimming, biking, and cross-country skiing - embracing his environment year-round. He found particular joy in feeding the birds (and squirrels). His consistent dedication to community service was evident in his personal initiative to adopt and maintain a stretch of road in Kandiyohi County, volunteering for the local DFL party, and serving as president of the church council and Stephen Minister at United Lutheran Church in Lake Lillian.  

Steve is survived by his wife, Judy Marquardt; adult child, Sam Marquardt (Melinda Harris); sister, Julie McKane; brother- and sister-in-law, Chuck and Pat Brown; nieces, Julie (Rod) Teichroew, Tracy Brown (Brian Livingston), and Kate (Mark) Dusenbury; and numerous beloved great-niblings and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, D. Jean and Robert Marquardt and parents-in-law, Charles and Fritzie Brown. 

Contributions in memory of Steve can be made to Amnesty International or Optage Hospice, in honor of his lifelong dedication to human rights and compassionate care. 

A Celebration of Life is planned for 11:00 am on October 5, 2024, at Macalester Plymouth United Church, 1658 Lincoln Ave, St Paul, MN. Steve's commitment to his family, career, and community service will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

Here is the link for the livestream of Steve's service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoIgfmolEeQ