I have a sneaking (an excellent skill to raise) suspicion that the real issue was they didn't like the fact there were probably 20 death markers piled in a heap for them to ponder every time they opened their map, mocking them and their lack of preparation and game knowledge. I keep my markers to remember my occasional need to yolo, my forgetfulness when building even after several thousand hours.
Markers are excellent reminders but maybe a bit embarrassing for a newcomer to the game.