Joseph Michael Marusich

Joseph “Michael” Marusich, 81, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025. Born in Bisbee, Arizona, Michael was a devoted husband, brother, uncle, Marine, educator, and musician.

Michael grew up in Phoenix and graduated from Carl Hayden High School in 1962. A gifted musician from a young age, he learned piano from his grandmother, Elsie Morgan, and later played keyboard. He started a band in high school where he played lead guitar.

He attended the University of Arizona before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1965. Michael served 13 months in Vietnam, achieved the rank of Sergeant (E-5), and completed his service as a Military Police officer. After returning home, he graduated from Arizona State University in 1971 and later earned a music education degree from Wayne State University.

In 1971, Michael met the love of his life, Marilyn, and they married in 1976. A talented conductor and educator, he taught music in Michigan for many years before he and Marilyn moved to Queen Creek, Arizona, in 2005. Michael continued teaching in the Chandler and Higley school districts until retiring.

He was an avid golfer, baseball player, reader of history and military books, and a man who cherished family—especially his nephews, with whom he shared board games, swimming, and countless laughs. Michael’s humor, kindness, and love for music touched everyone who knew him.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Patsy Stevens and Mike Marusich. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Marusich; brother David Marusich; sister-in-law Rebecca Nathan; sister Susan Banker; nephews Geoffrey (Brittany) and Brandan Banker; aunt Natalie Marusich; and cousins Stephanie and Paul Marusich.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM,  Wednesday, November 19th, at Falconer Funeral Home, 251 W. Juniper Ave., Gilbert, AZ 85233.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart of Healing Hospice, St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, or the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).