Marino Censoni

CENSONI, MARINO passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, in Troy, Michigan, at the age of 85, leaving behind a life defined by strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Born on March 6, 1940, in San Marino, Marino’s early life was shaped by the hardships of World War II. As a young boy, he witnessed uncertainty and loss, experiences that instilled in him resilience, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for opportunity. At the age of 16, he crossed the Atlantic with his mother to join his father in the United States, arriving through Ellis Island with little more than hope for a better future. He often spoke of seeing the Statue of Liberty for the first time and imagining the life that lay ahead. Marino and his family settled on the east side of Detroit, where he embraced his new home and the promise of the American dream. It was there that he met Elaine, the love of his life, who lived just down the street. Together they shared 63 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, hard work, laughter, and love, and raising a blended family that reflected his proud Italian heritage and Elaine’s Polish roots. Marino devoted his professional life to the construction industry, first working alongside his father and later building and leading successful businesses of his own. He believed deeply in the dignity of work and fairness for working families. A respected leader, he served as President of the Associated Concrete Contractors of Michigan and for nearly four decades brought steady leadership, integrity, and sound judgment to the Cement Masons Pension Fund, as well as the Health Care and Vacation Funds. His contributions strengthened these institutions and helped secure the futures of countless workers and their families. Beyond his work, Marino lived life fully and generously. He loved to travel, from family road trips to winters spent enjoying sunsets in Florida. Later in life, he took up golf with determination and enthusiasm, earning two holes-in-one and becoming a founding partner and co-owner of Cherry Creek Golf Club. He appreciated the best things in life, especially good food, often showing up with armfuls of pizza, fresh cherries, crab legs, or oysters—always more than enough and always meant to be shared. Family was at the center of Marino’s life. He was a devoted husband, a strong and steady father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather who delighted in being present—down on the floor playing, laughing, and making memories. He was the family’s problem-solver, the one everyone called when help was needed. He never hesitated, and he never failed to show up. To those who knew him best, Marino was like an oak tree: deeply rooted, strong enough to weather any storm, and generous in the shade and protection he provided to others. His wisdom, kindness, and quiet strength shaped the lives, opportunities, and careers of many. His legacy lives on through his family and all those whose lives he touched. Marino is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine; his children Stephen (Sue), Paula (Jerry), and Carl (Marjorie); his grandchildren Joey (Rachael), Madison (Zack), Jack, Annaclare, and Tess; his great-grandchildren Leo and Luca; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Giuseppe and Augustina Censoni, and his brother Urbano (Ben) Censoni. Marino Censoni lived with purpose, generosity, and heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Visitation Wednesday from 3-8pm with 7:00pm Rosary at Wujek Calcaterra & Sons Funeral Home 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile (SHELBY TOWNSHIP). Funeral Thursday Instate 11:30am at St. Kieran Church 53600 Mound Rd. (btw. 24 & 25 Mile Rds.) until time of Mass at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to are welcome to Special Olympics of Michigan or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Entombment Guardian Angel Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com.

Marino Censoni

March 6, 1940 - December 12, 2025