Mark J. Ginanni
What good shall I do this day?
Obituary
Mark J. Ginanni, age 66, of Palo Alto, California, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025 after a thirteen-month-long battle with GBM. Born on May 8, 1959, Mark was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach (Wilcox and Paly High Schools), teacher (Peterson and Jordan/Greene Middle Schools), and friend, whose presence touched the lives of so many.
Mark's joyful spirit and outgoing nature made it easy for him to connect with people wherever he went - he could make friends with anyone regardless of the language they spoke or their background. A common love of wine, sports, or fishing was generally his jumping-off point, but his genuine interest in others meant he could find commonalities among differences, too. He will be fondly remembered for his warmth, honesty, and boundless energy.
Athletic and adventurous, Mark embraced the outdoors and found happiness in exploring the beauty of nature and catching fish in any creek, stream, river, or lake he could find.
Friends and family cherished his stability under pressure, his unwavering optimism, and the genuine goodness he shared so freely with those around him.
Mark’s passion for life was evident in his relationships and the countless friendships he cultivated. It’s impossible to express here the impact Mark had on others - he had a unique gift for making people feel happy, special, seen and heard - his ability to build relationships was profound and can only be measured by the love he accumulated from the people he surrounded himself with. All who knew him knew what it meant to be loved and we are all better because of it. This will be his legacy. His laughter, kindness, generosity, integrity, and loving commitment to his family will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Mark is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cindy (Raffarin) Ginanni, children, Joe, Christie and John, their spouses, Tris, Joe and Kaylyn, grandchildren, Asher, Hank, Norah, Jack, and Lorenzo, sister, Joanne (Bruce), brother, Joe (Suzy), niece and nephews, Alyssa, Matt, Justin, and Ryan, cousins Katy and Claudia, great-aunt Mary Belle Ginanni, and countless friends, former students and players.
A celebration of his wonderful life will be held at the Lucie Stern Community Center in Palo Alto on March 1, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. All are welcome to join in remembrance of a truly remarkable man.
Timeline
1959
May 8th
Mark was born
Mark was born and lived with his parents, Joe and Dolores, his sister, Joanne, and later, his brother, Joe in Sunnyvale.
1964
September
Raynor Elementary and Patrick Henry Middle School
Kindergarten through fifth grade at Raynor School had Mark building life-long friendships and making friendly mischief with his friends. Patrick Henry included more friends, sports, and activities. At the age of 16, Mark's baseball team won the Colt League World Series in Purdue, IN. The players are remembered on a plaque at Washington Park in Santa Clara.
1973
September
Peterson High School
Mark enjoyed playing both football and baseball during his four years at Peterson. He met Cindy in 1975 at a Christmas party his junior year. Mark was a night rally Homecoming escort and graduated in 1977 with classmates who have continued close friendships over the years with frequent events.
1977
September
De Anza College
Mark worked part-time and attended De Anza College where he enjoyed playing baseball as a catcher for coach Eddie Bressoud, who inspired Mark deeply. Mark built more lasting friendships at De Anza. Cindy joined Mark at De Anza the following year, and they took several classes together.
1979
September
San Jose State University
Mark transferred to San Jose State and worked part-time at Kodak with his father. He continued to play baseball at SJSU.
1980
September 6th
Marriage
Mark and Cindy got married during Mark's senior year of college and he stopped playing baseball, but continued working at Kodak and pursuing his degree in Human Performance with a minor in Nutrition. They rented a little duplex in Mountain View and Mark also assisted head coach Mike Hazlett to coach the Peterson High School baseball team that Mark's younger brother, Joe, played on.
1981
August
Joe is born
Mark and Cindy relished parenthood and worked alternate shifts to take care of Joe. Mark loved being a playful father, which became his priority while he continued working and finishing his degree at SJSU.
1982
May
Graduation from SJSU
Yay!! Mark began teaching physical education for a local private school and considered getting his teaching credential. He eagerly joined his friend's sports teams that needed players on occasion. Mark continued assistant coaching football and baseball with some of his former Peterson coaches at Wilcox High School after Peterson became a middle school. Of course, he made new coaching friends, too.
1983
July
Christie is born
Joe has a little sister, and Mark and Cindy continue working alternate shifts to take care of their children. Mark would come home from work and after Cindy left to teach dance classes, it would be "park time" with Dad.
1986
Teaching
Mark earned his teaching credential and was hired to teach at Peterson Middle School (the high school became a middle school) where Mark enjoyed teaching alongside his former teachers and mentors who later became his friends. He continued to enjoy assisting Mike Hazlett coach varsity baseball at Wilcox High School.
1987
October
John is born
The growing family moved to Palo Alto a few months before John was born. It was Cindy's grandparent's tiny house with 2 bedrooms and a large yard, so all three children shared a room together. Their 2 week summer vacation consisted of camping trips throughout the Sierras and western states.
1992
August
Head Varsity Coach at Wilcox
With the help of his mentor and friend, Mike Hazlett, Mark assumed the role of head coach for the Wilcox varsity baseball team. Mark's good friend, Tony Brewer worked with him in this role, and we enjoyed going to baseball games. Mark and Tony also joined the semi-professional baseball team, the Palo Alto Oaks. The Brewer and Ginanni families were always in the stands. In one game, Mark caught a double-header and the pitcher was one of his ex-players at Wilcox.
1994
August
Teaching and Coaching in Palo Alto
When Joe was in 7th grade, he came home from school announcing that his PE teacher at Jordan Middle School in Palo Alto was retiring. Mark applied and got the job for the following school year. He was offered the varsity head coach position at Paly, and with a heavy heart, he left Wilcox. A year later, Mark and his friend, Tony would represent high school American baseball in the All Star Goodwill Games in Japan. Mark loved teaching and coaching in Palo Alto, and he especially cherished the relationships that were cultivated with his students, players, parents, fellow staff, and coaches.
1999
June
Retired from Coaching
Mark was able to coach at Paly while Joe was on the team. After graduating from Paly, Joe played football and baseball in college. Christie was playing varsity soccer at Paly, and John was active in baseball and football, Mark left his coaching job to be able to support his children and watch their games.
2001
December
Christmas with our family in France
We traveled to Germany and then France for Christmas with our French relatives and spent time in Paris before and after the New Year of 2002. We joked about Mark making friends throughout the trip. He didn't speak the language, but was able to communicate with everyone. The trip ignited Mark's love of people, places, and culture, and became the first of many wonderful journeys.
2005
August
Old G and Young G
Jordan (now called Greene) Middle School had two Ginanni men teaching P.E after Joe joined the faculty as Young G. Mark was also referred to as "Wise G" and was known to create nick names for his students. Mark loved working with Joe. He loved his job and going to work everyday. Mark appreciated the wonderful staff at school and felt that he had not only found the perfect job, but also a meaningful way to make a positive impact on young teens. Joe and Mark would teach P.E. together for nearly 15 years.
2010
October 2nd
Christie Gets Married
One of the highlights of Mark's life was walking Christie down the aisle at her wedding to Joe Stepan. Mark ended the evening dancing to a live bluegrass band with his tie tied around his head. It was very emotional, and also really fun!
2011
January 16th
Joe Gets Married
Only three months after Christie and Joe's wedding, Joe marries Tristan Ngoon. Tris and Christie played on the same soccer team since 6th grade and we've known the Ngoon family for years. We felt blessed to have such a wonderful son-in-law and daughter-in-law and we also love the Stepan and Ngoon families.
2011
November 28th
Asher is Born
Our first grandson, Asher, arrived just after Thanksgiving to happy parents, Joe and Tristan. Mark adored being Papa and would later become "Monkey Papa" or "Monkey" for short.
2013
November 20th
Hank is Born
We drove through a blizzard and over Rabbit Ears Pass in our rental car to get to Steamboat Springs, CO in time to see our daughter, Christie and her husband, Joe just before Hank arrived. We celebrated with the Stepan family and stayed through Thanksgiving
2014
December 18th
Norah is Born
Tris, Joe, and big brother, Asher welcome Norah into the family. Spending time with our grandchildren and children is a big highlight for both of us. We are fortunate that Joe and Tris live nearby and we get to see their family often.
2015
December 21st
Jack is Born
We got to replay traveling in a blizzard to get to Steamboat Springs in time to see Jack's birth. Christie, Joe, and big brother, Hank are a happy family. We stay through Christmas with Joe's parents, Paula and Joe, and enjoy our growing family. We travel to Steamboat regularly to visit, and when they come to CA to visit us, the cousins have so much fun together..
2019
September 7th
John Gets Married
Our youngest son, John, marries Kaylyn Reyes and Mark officiated their wedding. Our four grandchildren are included in the ceremony with Norah as the Flower Girl, Jack as the Ring Bearer, and Asher and Hank were escorts. Cindy has known and loved the Reyes family for many years through dance, and knew Kaylyn since preschool!
2020
March
Final In-Person Teaching
Mark always regretted not being able to come back to teach his P,E. classes in person during the pandemic in his final year of teaching before retiring. But, he made online P.E. fun by creating several videos to help students work out at home or in nature. He retired that following fall of 2020 and would continue making workout, hiking, running, or biking selfie videos to send to our adult children. They were always hilarious.
2020
November
Mark Retires from Teaching
After 32.5 years of teaching, Mark retires. We celebrate with a little covid-friendly party at our house. In retirement, Mark is never idle. He spends more time at Cafe Venezia with his friends, goes to the market daily, exercises and goes on adventures, cooks, and loves playing with his grandchildren. Monkey Papa is always playing and monkeying around with his little monkeys (our grandchildren.)
2023
November 29th
Lorenzo is Born
John and Kaylyn welcome Lorenzo! Lorenzo's cousins always want to hold him. We are close enough to visit fairly often and we treasure family time with all of us together. There is never a dull moment and we always have fun.
2024
November 25th
Mark battles GBM
Over the course of the next 13 months, Mark will endure brain surgery, countless MRIs, cyber knife radiation, TTF, 2 different types of chemotherapy, Avastin infusions, physical and occupational therapy, small seizures and one grand mal seizure, lots of medications, labs, and doctor visits before starting hospice on November 3, 2025. We are forever grateful for Mark's medical team, especially Dr. Eric Lau, Mark's PCP and oncologist.
2025
December 20th
50th anniversary of the night we met
We met at a semi-formal Christmas party on December 20, 1975 and started dating after we saw each other again at a New Year's party. Before Mark's diagnosis, we talked about celebrating with a 70's theme holiday party. As it happened, this was Mark's final night with us. Mark passed away early the next morning while sleeping.
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March 2, 2026
He looked out for me when I got in trouble as a youth. He pulled me aside and said, " it's going to be a little rough for you right now. But you'll get through it." And no other adult reached me in that particular way. It was sincere and I remember nodding in agreement and steeling myself. He was a genuinely good man. All my best to his loving family.
March 1, 2026
Thank you, Mark, for the kindness you showed me at a difficult time. I always admired your zest for life. Deepest sympathies to Cindy and the rest of your loving family.
March 1, 2026
Mark has been in my families life since I was three years old.
Watching over my grandparents who moved in across the street.
Reconnecting with my Dad and soon beginning their coaching career together.
Meeting my best and longest friend/Bruh John.
John and I had front row seats to what true friendship looks like. Mark was the only man that I knew who wasn’t intimidated by my dad. He was the Barney Rubble to my dad’s Fred Flintstone. He loved my dad for who he truly was. My dad felt comfortable enough to remove his armor, put down the shield and really relax when with Mark. He could be himself and breathe. My dad is and has always been my hero but Mark gave me the rare opportunity to see my dad’s heart. That was so special for me to see as a kid. Now that I am a father I realize how important that was. We all felt so safe with the Ginannis. I am so thankful. I love you guys so much. I have so many core memories. All the Blue Bronco rides to the cabin. All the rides to watch Joe and Christie’s sports game singing The Monkeys. All the BBQ’s and family parties. The Xmas mornings. I could go on and on. I cherish those times. They have left a life long impression on me. I will do my best to give all the game Mark gave to me to give it to my boys.
Watching over my grandparents who moved in across the street.
Reconnecting with my Dad and soon beginning their coaching career together.
Meeting my best and longest friend/Bruh John.
John and I had front row seats to what true friendship looks like. Mark was the only man that I knew who wasn’t intimidated by my dad. He was the Barney Rubble to my dad’s Fred Flintstone. He loved my dad for who he truly was. My dad felt comfortable enough to remove his armor, put down the shield and really relax when with Mark. He could be himself and breathe. My dad is and has always been my hero but Mark gave me the rare opportunity to see my dad’s heart. That was so special for me to see as a kid. Now that I am a father I realize how important that was. We all felt so safe with the Ginannis. I am so thankful. I love you guys so much. I have so many core memories. All the Blue Bronco rides to the cabin. All the rides to watch Joe and Christie’s sports game singing The Monkeys. All the BBQ’s and family parties. The Xmas mornings. I could go on and on. I cherish those times. They have left a life long impression on me. I will do my best to give all the game Mark gave to me to give it to my boys.
March 1, 2026
A Tribute to Mark
Mark became a brother to me when I was only ten years old. As I grew into those difficult teenage years and found myself "messing up," he was right there alongside my sister and parents—not to judge, but to offer the sane, steady counsel I so desperately needed.
Our family can be a beautiful whirlwind, but Mark was always the calm center of the storm. He was the one person who could always ground us, acting as the quiet, rational fixture in every room. I loved him for that balance, but I also admired him for the way he loved. He was always so handsome, and it was so clear how deeply he loved my sister.
I’ll never forget the sound of his "two honks" as he drove away at night, with my parents standing on the sidewalk waving him off. He was part of the fabric of our lives from the very beginning, and he will be missed beyond words.
Mark became a brother to me when I was only ten years old. As I grew into those difficult teenage years and found myself "messing up," he was right there alongside my sister and parents—not to judge, but to offer the sane, steady counsel I so desperately needed.
Our family can be a beautiful whirlwind, but Mark was always the calm center of the storm. He was the one person who could always ground us, acting as the quiet, rational fixture in every room. I loved him for that balance, but I also admired him for the way he loved. He was always so handsome, and it was so clear how deeply he loved my sister.
I’ll never forget the sound of his "two honks" as he drove away at night, with my parents standing on the sidewalk waving him off. He was part of the fabric of our lives from the very beginning, and he will be missed beyond words.
February 26, 2026
Mark and I had met as Walter Hays parents and then as educators at PAUSD.
One day I was walking Old Spanish Trail and low and behold, there was Mark jogging on the trail! We stopped, surprised to see each other up there! We talked for at least 20-30 minutes about encounters we had hiking on this trail. One instance in particular, Mark shared that he had once come upon a young mountain lion lying on his back enjoying the warm sunshine, batting at a butterfly. I could visualize the scene. And we both chuckled to think this mighty lion was so relaxed and playing!
In the next few years, I saw Mark and Cindy regularly picking up Asher and Norah from Walter Hays. It was always a joy to connect with them. We did a lot of small talk, but Mark reminded me that when I retired to enjoy each day (especially if you meet friends at Cafe Venetia!) So, one day after I retired, I met two friends there. There was Mark! It was evident that everyone knew and loved him. He escorted us to the counter and insisted that he treat us all to coffee! We sat down together and enjoyed another wonderful conversation with Mark!
I feel fortunate to have known such a kind, welcoming, generous and thoughtful man. He is the kind of person that makes our experiences in life rich. To know Mark, even in those brief moments, were very special and I will always remember his enthusiasm and joy in everyday life. What a role model!
My thoughts are with you Cindy, Joe, John, Christie, spouses and grandchildren. We are all lucky to have him in our lives; he certainly made the world a better place!
One day I was walking Old Spanish Trail and low and behold, there was Mark jogging on the trail! We stopped, surprised to see each other up there! We talked for at least 20-30 minutes about encounters we had hiking on this trail. One instance in particular, Mark shared that he had once come upon a young mountain lion lying on his back enjoying the warm sunshine, batting at a butterfly. I could visualize the scene. And we both chuckled to think this mighty lion was so relaxed and playing!
In the next few years, I saw Mark and Cindy regularly picking up Asher and Norah from Walter Hays. It was always a joy to connect with them. We did a lot of small talk, but Mark reminded me that when I retired to enjoy each day (especially if you meet friends at Cafe Venetia!) So, one day after I retired, I met two friends there. There was Mark! It was evident that everyone knew and loved him. He escorted us to the counter and insisted that he treat us all to coffee! We sat down together and enjoyed another wonderful conversation with Mark!
I feel fortunate to have known such a kind, welcoming, generous and thoughtful man. He is the kind of person that makes our experiences in life rich. To know Mark, even in those brief moments, were very special and I will always remember his enthusiasm and joy in everyday life. What a role model!
My thoughts are with you Cindy, Joe, John, Christie, spouses and grandchildren. We are all lucky to have him in our lives; he certainly made the world a better place!
February 12, 2026
I first met Mark, back when he was dating Cindy and she was a Pirette (song girl), along with a girl I was dating. We was sitting in the bleachers at a basketball game watching the girls perform and we struck up a conversation. A few months later, we happened to have the same class at De Anza college and we met up after class and started to talk about trout fishing. That afternoon, Mark called in sick to work and we went trout fishing on a local creek and we were fishing buddies from that point forward. Mark had a great passion for the outdoors and always wanted to see what was around the next bend in the river (which usually made us late getting home). Unfortunately, life got in the way, and we hadn't fished together in years, but we shared stories whenever we saw each other. While Mark loved the outdoors/sports/life in general., what he loved most of all was his family and he expressed that to me almost every time we talked. Mark was a good man, a good friend and I know he is in a good place...looking to find what awaits around the next bend in the river.
January 25, 2026
What a joy to be around. A competitive and bright baseball coach. Many games against Monta Vista v. Palo Alto led to after an hour where the coaches spent time enjoying each others company. Win or lose cordial, positive, smiling the entire time. Mark and Tony were a pair of gems to be around. Deepest sympathy to the family for the warmest, genuine guy to be around. Sleep well my friend and may God have you coach his team. Brad Metheany
January 23, 2026
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Ginanni. He was someone who had a profound impact on my life, not only as my high school baseball coach, but as an example of the kind of man, father, and leader to strive to be.
As a coach, Mr. Ginanni taught me far more than the fundamentals of the game. He instilled values of discipline, accountability, and respect—lessons that extended well beyond the baseball field and have stayed with me throughout my life. His influence helped shape me not only as an athlete, but as a person.
What stood out most was the example he set as a family man and father. The pride he had in his family was evident in everything he did, and it left a lasting impression on me. Seeing how he balanced leadership, integrity, and devotion to his loved ones made a meaningful impact that I will always carry with me.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Ginanni family. Mr. Ginanni’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, and I am truly grateful to have been one of them.
— Rafael
As a coach, Mr. Ginanni taught me far more than the fundamentals of the game. He instilled values of discipline, accountability, and respect—lessons that extended well beyond the baseball field and have stayed with me throughout my life. His influence helped shape me not only as an athlete, but as a person.
What stood out most was the example he set as a family man and father. The pride he had in his family was evident in everything he did, and it left a lasting impression on me. Seeing how he balanced leadership, integrity, and devotion to his loved ones made a meaningful impact that I will always carry with me.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Ginanni family. Mr. Ginanni’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, and I am truly grateful to have been one of them.
— Rafael
January 22, 2026
Energy, enthusiasm, and kindness on the field, in the halls, at meetings, and I can only guess the same outside of work. Honestly, I don’t think I ever heard him speak ill towards anyone. It wasn’t in his nature. I always loved watching him do his “coach em’ up” thing in front of students. It got me fired up to hit the classroom and do my best. He was a great teacher and all-around good man.
January 20, 2026
I grew up in Palo Alto, and raised my son Sam there. Sam had Mr. G as his PE teacher at Jordan. He was, as everyone knows a fantastic teacher, Sam loved him. He was also a familiar face through the years, and a friendly reminder of the town, and way of life I grew up in. I walked by his house on my way to work, and we always had a little chat. We talked mostly about food and wine.... RIP Mr. G, you will be missed.
January 13, 2026
I am so sad to hear of Mark’s passing. I am honored to have been Mark’s teammate with the Palo Alto Oaks. He caught many double headers and I always marveled at his boundless energy. Anyone who knew Mark knows how he made you feel like one of his special friends. I believe that is because you were to him. What a special human being to strive to be like! 2 or 3 years could pass without seeing each Mark and then I would randomly run into Mark and it would always pick right up like no time passed at all. Always so positive and so encouraging. A true blessing to society. I am forever grateful to call Mark a teammate and friend.
January 11, 2026
Mark was a very special man. I met him (and Cindy) during our high school days at Peterson. Through the years, we reconnected at class reunions and more frequently at alumni Pizza Nights, and a couple of Giants games in SF plus summer BBQ’s at the Ginanni house. Mark was a great class cheerleader- always asking who he could help “recruit” to attend our events. Celebrating Mark’s 66th birthday in May was special. Despite all he had endured with treatment, he was still able to master catching a small football. He was proud of his career in teaching and coaching; also deeply loved Cindy and his family. I will miss this Pirate so much!
January 7, 2026
Six years ago, I first heard the name “Ginanni”—more specifically, “Big G” and “Little G.” My boys were in his class at Greene and always came home saying how cool he was.
Three years ago, I began spending my days working out of the house next to his. One afternoon, we started chatting in his front yard, and suddenly it clicked—this was Ginanni. That kicked off a very frequent happening: seeing Mark and stopping for a ten-minute conversation. We’d talk about my kids and Paly sports; he’d share stories about his kids and grandkids.
Then we discovered our shared passion for fly fishing. Each day, as I walked up the street or headed out, I’d hope to see him out front.
I’ve missed those chats this past year, and I’ll miss him. Mark was one of the most authentic and seemingly content people I’ve known. I choose to see his passing as a lasting reminder to slow down and have the conversations—sometimes great impact comes from simple chats in a front yard.
Three years ago, I began spending my days working out of the house next to his. One afternoon, we started chatting in his front yard, and suddenly it clicked—this was Ginanni. That kicked off a very frequent happening: seeing Mark and stopping for a ten-minute conversation. We’d talk about my kids and Paly sports; he’d share stories about his kids and grandkids.
Then we discovered our shared passion for fly fishing. Each day, as I walked up the street or headed out, I’d hope to see him out front.
I’ve missed those chats this past year, and I’ll miss him. Mark was one of the most authentic and seemingly content people I’ve known. I choose to see his passing as a lasting reminder to slow down and have the conversations—sometimes great impact comes from simple chats in a front yard.
January 7, 2026
Mark was part of my life in a quiet, everyday way. He was my neighbor after we moved back to Palo Alto. He taught my son PE at Jordan, and his wife Cindy taught both my daughters how to dance. He was always around and always kind. I’d see him out in his front garden or heading out for a run, usually smiling and stopping to say hello. He was present in a way that felt real and rare. He took care of himself, cared about people, and seemed genuinely content with his life. I looked up to him and hoped I could have my life as together as he did. His passing came fast and was shocking. It’s a reminder to live well and appreciate people now, not later. Mark lived his life the right way, and he will be missed.
January 6, 2026
When Mark stepped into the room, the whole dynamic would change. He radiated positivity and it was contagious. All the Walter Hays kids knew and loved him…he would pick up a ball and throw with anyone. During the Rinconada park renovation, we all shifted over to the roller rink for the kids to play after school. The rink area itself was in a state of disrepair, but he loved it there and kept it lively…holding court and walking from parent to parent...talking to everyone. He loved watching the kids play there and would always jump in to keep the excitement going. Once the park was renovated with new equipment, he kept talking about how he missed hanging out with all the kids and parents in that old roller rink. That will always be a special place for us to remember him. It is an incredible loss for the community and an honor to have spent time with him. He will be so greatly missed. All our love to the wonderful family,
The Marty Family
The Marty Family
January 6, 2026
Whenever I was with Mark he treated me as if we had been lifetime soulmates - one of the kindest and thoughtful people I have ever met! His love for family and friends was everything. He will be so sadly missed- but never forgotten. RIP Mark!
January 6, 2026
Mark was one of the very first people I got to know as my family and I moved to Palo Alto and joined the wonderful Walter Hays elemetery community.
It was just pure joy to be around Mark in the park after school from day one. He would bring the wonderful smile, the joy for life and passion every time we saw him. Mark inspired all kids to be better in school, better at sports and better one to another. Our kids loved him and we loved him.
We will greatly miss you Mark.
Prelovac Family
Vlad, Beka, Petra, Masha, Zoe
It was just pure joy to be around Mark in the park after school from day one. He would bring the wonderful smile, the joy for life and passion every time we saw him. Mark inspired all kids to be better in school, better at sports and better one to another. Our kids loved him and we loved him.
We will greatly miss you Mark.
Prelovac Family
Vlad, Beka, Petra, Masha, Zoe
January 5, 2026
Mark and I met in kindergarden and we traveled the years together to Peterson. Although not súper close, Mark was always a shining light, quick to flash a smile and as ready presence. I knew and loved Cindy from Pirettes. Thanks for sharing the rest of their story. I didn’t realize we were at SjSU at the same time. I hadn’t communicated with Mark or Cindy for years and then shortly before his diagnosis was announced I hadn’t communicated with a very vivid dream featuring Mark. Thank you Mark for sharing your warm personality and global love. We know that God welcomes into his arms. As sad as we are to go on without you-we hope to see you again coaching the “dream team” above. We are cheering you on from the sidelines. Hugs to Cindy and your blessed children and gran children.
January 4, 2026
I’ve known my brother for all but 20 months of my 68 years. There is a different type of grief when you lose a sibling, especially a younger one. It turns out to be a place none of us know until we reach it. I will miss Mark’s humor, kindness, and his story telling. He could make me laugh like no other.
Our family of five shared many memories, that were thankfully documented through photographs. These photos will always be with my brother, Joe and I, and hopefully passed on after we are no longer here. And as we grew into adults, got married and had our own children, the tradition of taking photos carried on.
For the past year, during Mark’s illness, photos have been a source of strength. And now, as the healing process begins, they will do the same. He will never be far from my thoughts, and to miss him is to honor and remember him always.
This collage, mostly of the three of us, is just a fraction of the images taken throughout the years. They are priceless.
Bring the camera. Take the photos. Create the memories.
It’s never too late to start.
Click on the collage
to see all the photos
Our family of five shared many memories, that were thankfully documented through photographs. These photos will always be with my brother, Joe and I, and hopefully passed on after we are no longer here. And as we grew into adults, got married and had our own children, the tradition of taking photos carried on.
For the past year, during Mark’s illness, photos have been a source of strength. And now, as the healing process begins, they will do the same. He will never be far from my thoughts, and to miss him is to honor and remember him always.
This collage, mostly of the three of us, is just a fraction of the images taken throughout the years. They are priceless.
Bring the camera. Take the photos. Create the memories.
It’s never too late to start.
Click on the collage
to see all the photos
Family tree
Joseph Ginanni
Martina Moizuk
Peter Nelson
Ella Hogan
Joe Ginanni
Dolores
(Nelson) Ginanni
(Nelson) Ginanni
Cindy (Raffarin) Ginanni
Joe Ginanni
(Suzy Ginanni)
(Suzy Ginanni)
Joanne (Ginanni) Caruth
(Bruce Caruth)
(Bruce Caruth)
Christie (Ginanni) Stepan
(Joe Stepan)
(Joe Stepan)
Children
Hank
Jack
Joe Ginanni
(Tristan Ngoon Ginanni)
(Tristan Ngoon Ginanni)
Children
Asher
Norah
John Ginanni
(Kaylyn Reyes)
(Kaylyn Reyes)
Children
Lorenzo
Full Name
Joe Ginanni
(Suzy Ginanni)
(Suzy Ginanni)
Joanne (Ginanni) Caruth
(Bruce Caruth)
(Bruce Caruth)
Full Name
Cindy (Raffarin) Ginanni
Christie (Ginanni) Stepan
(Joe Stepan)
(Joe Stepan)
Hank
Jack
Joe Ginanni
(Tristan Ngoon Ginanni)
(Tristan Ngoon Ginanni)
Asher
Norah
John Ginanni
(Kaylyn Reyes)
(Kaylyn Reyes)
Lorenzo
Mark Ginanni
Service
Please join us as we reflect on, celebrate, and honor the wonderful life Mark lived.
March 1, 2026 at the Lucie Stern Community Center in Palo Alto. 2-4pm.
The memorial will be held in the ballroom, followed by snacks and refreshments in the patio. Casual attire. All are welcome, please RSVP below.
Parking is VERY limited at the community center! Please allow extra time to find parking in the neighborhood, or arrive via rideshare, bike, or on foot!
March 1, 2026 at the Lucie Stern Community Center in Palo Alto. 2-4pm.
The memorial will be held in the ballroom, followed by snacks and refreshments in the patio. Casual attire. All are welcome, please RSVP below.
Parking is VERY limited at the community center! Please allow extra time to find parking in the neighborhood, or arrive via rideshare, bike, or on foot!
made with 
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