Morris - MORRIS - Marcos Ariel Fernandez, 35, of Morris, passed away suddenly on Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, at home.

Marcos was born in the small town of Berrotaran, Argentina. He was proud of being part of that community, one that he attributed to a happy childhood with friends and a joyful life playing soccer. His passion for soccer began at a very early age when a soccer ball caught his attention and thus led him to take his very first steps.

Marcos moved to New York City in 2001 where he completed his education and found comfort to the new environment and language through friends he made while playing soccer. At a young age, Marcos received his coaching license, and he didn't stop teaching soccer since.

In 2020, Marcos moved to Morris which he loved as he thought it resembled many qualities of his native town in Argentina. The people, the peace, the friends, and neighbors who genuinely cared for one another. Marcos was loved and admired everywhere he went. Children loved and connected with him almost immediately, through his charisma, passion, kindness and one-of-a-kind sense of humor. Marcos made everyone feel welcome and made children, especially, feel like they belonged. Marcos always put everyone ahead of his own needs.

His wife often told him that not only was he the best father, but he was also like a second mom to their son, Tomas. Marcos took great joy and pride in raising his son, whom he considered to be his best friend. It wasn't rare to see both of them playing soccer after a long day of school and work. Marcos wanted to spend every single moment he had with his son and be involved in his life, no matter how tired or long the days were, he always found time to kick the ball around with his son.

Marcos valued education and a strong sense of character. He made sure that the kids he coached were not only good soccer players who tried their best, he also deemed it important to develop character and sportsmanship in children. Kindness and humility were at the forefront of his teachings.

Marcos was fun and adventurous. He loved nature and the simple things in life.

Family, friends and colleagues are invited to visitation at Johnston & Stanimer Funeral Home, 60 Broad St., Morris from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 19.

Marcos's family has entrusted his care to the Johnston & Stanimer Funeral Home in Morris.

Share online condolences at www.johnstonfh.com.