Marshall Kaplan

Marshall Kaplan of West Hartford, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 31, 2026, leaving his family and friends heartbroken by his sudden loss.

Marshall was born on August 28, 1952, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Everett Kaplan and Rita Goldstein Kaplan, both of whom predeceased him. He spent his early childhood in East Hartford before moving to Bloomfield, where he graduated from Bloomfield High School.

Following graduation, Marshall proudly served his country in the United States Army as a medic and was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. The compassion and dedication that defined his military service remained with him throughout his life. Even after leaving the Army, Marshall continued to serve others whenever he could, regularly donating blood and platelets and seeking opportunities to help those around him. His commitment to caring for others remained a defining part of who he was.

After completing his military service, Marshall returned home and pursued higher education, earning a degree in computer programming from Computer Processing Institute (CPI). While working at Hartford Community College in May 1976, Marshall met the love of his life, Margaret “Peggy” Kaplan, an event he would later describe as the greatest day of his life. Together they shared a remarkable 50-year love story, including 36 years of marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and unwavering support for one another.

Marshall later joined The Hartford, where he enjoyed a successful 32-year career as a computer programmer. Throughout his career, Marshall developed many lasting friendships and was respected for his dedication, intelligence, and strong work ethic. His Hartford “work family” held a special place in his heart.

Marshall is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret “Peggy” Kaplan; his daughters, Pamela Liggett (Mark) of Louisvile, KY and Dr. Elizabeth Allen of Washington, D.C. and his cherished grandchildren, Jacob and Nathan Diaz formerly of Niantic, CT and Luke, William, and Mia Liggett; his sister, Ruth Cohen (Lawrence) of Plymouth, Massachusetts,; his nieces, Stephanie Curran (Scott) and Tracy Orloff (Marc); Doris Hayden, widow of Peggy’s brother, Peter Hayden, and their children, Lynsey Teixeira, Leigh Hayden, and Katie Pitari (Anthony); and many beloved great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Marshall found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a lifelong fan of The Beatles and never lost his appreciation for Charlie Brown and the Peanuts characters. He also had a well-known love for all things chocolate! He will be remembered for his gentle nature, quiet wit, loyalty to family and friends, and the steady presence he brought to those who knew and loved him.

Above all else, Marshall treasured his family. His love, wisdom, and kindness will remain with them always, and his memory will continue to be a blessing to all whose lives he touched.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Emanuel Synagogue and Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery both in West Hartford, CT

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund at Emanuel Synagogue, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

May his memory be a blessing.