Dear ACAS members, volunteers, and supporters,
I am writing to sadly inform you about Nitto passing. It is a
very big loss for all of us at ACAS.
Nitto's integrity, his work, and outlook in life inspired a lot
of people around him, including me. He will be missed and thought
of often.
Our sincere condolence to Bill and Nitto's family.
Noulmook Sutdhibhasilp
ACAS Executive Director
The Toronto People with AIDS Foundation (PWA), joined
by many voices at Asian Community AIDS Services (ACAS) and within
the broader community, mourn the loss of Nitto Marquez, cherished
friend and colleague.
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Nitto Marquez,
cherished friend and colleague. Nitto died April 29th, 2008 with
his partner and sister present.
Nitto’s community leadership included co-founding the Gay
Asians Toronto in 1980 and co-founding the Toronto Chapter of
the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence dedicated to the “promulgation
of joy and expiation of guilt”.
After his HIV+ diagnosis in 1996, Nitto looked for information
and support from ACAS. His natural leadership, insight and passion
for supporting others resulted in his involvement on the ACAS
Board of Directors followed by 3 years as Chair.
Nitto joined the Toronto People With AIDS Foundation in 2001,
working in several roles including Intake Worker, Speakers Bureau
Coordinator and Benefits & Assistance Case Manager. Throughout
his community involvement, he touched many people and impacted
HIV awareness by sharing his story publicly and in the media.
The following quote from Nitto’s story, shared in the ACAS
10th Anniversary Book, captures Nitto’s passionate commitment
to helping others, “As time went on, my attitude of defeat
and helplessness turned into one of empowerment against this disease,
and into a definite resolve to help others who are facing the
same health situation.”
This passion, perhaps more than anything else will define our
memory of Nitto and the huge loss to our community.
10 Questions for Nitto…
'from a nun to a survivor' (Nitto's interview with iRice in 2005)
Go to
Condolence Book
