Michael Louis Marchino, 75, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Chestnut Hill Hospital.
Born on December 13, 1949 in Mattoon, Illinois, he was a devoted husband and dear friend of Dorothy Jean Burton and loving father to Gabriel Burton Marchino and Christopher Burton Marchino.
Michael attended Rivet High School in Vincennes, Indiana. He received a bachelor's degree in anthropology from Indiana University, Bloomington, as well as two master’s degrees in political science and international relations from the University of Pennsylvania.
Michael spent his long professional career working in the nonprofit sector for organizations such as the AFSC, The Rockefeller Foundation and CARE International.
As a Senior Development Officer, he traveled frequently to many economically deprived parts of the world, endeavoring to alleviate suffering through economic empowerment and human dignity. Following his retirement, he served on the board of trustees of the Marshall Reynolds Foundation.
Michael enthusiastically pursued a wide variety of interests. He informally studied history, geography and genealogy. His natural artistic ability informed his appreciation of the visual arts, music, gardening and cooking. Michael’s hobbies included birding, mushrooming, sports and wine.
Michael is survived by loving members of his family, including his former wife, Dorothy, two sons, Gabriel and Christopher, two grandsons, Henri Louis Marchino and Miles Olivier Marchino and his brother Mark Marchino. He is predeceased by his sister, Phillipa Ann Marchino Rohrscheib.
A memorial celebration for Michael was held on July 20th at the Cope House at Awbury Arboretum. Donations in Michael’s name can be made to Delaware Riverkeeper Network or Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Michael’s indomitable spirit made him a deeply beloved father and friend to so many. His decision to donate his body to the Perelman School of Medicine reflects the intersection of his passion for learning and his deeply held belief that knowledge can reveal pathways to a dignified quality of life for all.
May Michael’s influence continue to guide us as we work toward a more just and peaceful world.
