Mark Gallegos

Mark was born January 22, 1955 in Durango, Colorado. He passed away in Alamo on January 12, 2010 after a brave fight against brain cancer. He is preceded in death by his parents Don and Jeanette Gallegos and his in-laws Vincent and Mary O?Callaghan, and Denis O?Callaghan. Mark is survived by the love of his life Joanne, his precious children and joys of his life, Mark and Chelsea; his brother Mike Gallegos and wife Judy of Rocklin; his adored sisters-in-law Monica O?Callaghan and Leslie Costa of Alameda, Maureen O?Callaghan of Castro Valley, and Angela and Annie O?Callaghan, both of Dublin; his band of brothers-in-law Monte Poole, Steven Jones and Mike Sobek; his beloved nieces Ashley, Paige, Alyssa, Savannah, and Angelina; and nephews Michael and Christopher. Mark had a treasured circle of friends, and many loving cousins, aunts and uncles. His dogs Allie and Maci were also great joys in his life. He was a licensed U.S. Customs Broker and made his career at Fairn & Swanson; and at AT&T and Charles Schwab as a Technology Manager. He was also the owner of ChelMar Promotions. Mark loved to play golf, was an avid Oakland A?s and San Jose Sharks fan, and for many years was a devoted Oakland Raiders fan. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. He loved watching his children play sports, particularly Mark in youth baseball, traveling with him twice to see him play in China, and following his rowing career in high school and college. He was a passionate soccer Dad who traveled the nation to cheer Chelsea on, and greatly enjoyed her high school team?s success at San Ramon Valley High. Mark loved children and donated time to coaching Danville Little League baseball, Mustang girls soccer and SRVGAL softball. He was also a mentor and supporter to those with substance abuse problems. Mark had a strong faith in God and loved life. He always chose to see the best in people and to enjoy each day. He faced everything in his life with positivity, kindness, dignity, grace and humor. He was a loyal and compassionate man who treasured his family and friends above all else. He was known by several nicknames including ?Bear?, ?Pops?, ?Beautiful?, ?Podge?, and ?Mayor Mark?, among others. The energy of Mark?s smile, love and friendship will resonate for many years to come. He has left a great legacy for how to live life well. Throughout his illness Mark believed in hope, as without hope, we have nothing. More than 200,000 people are diagnosed with brain tumors in the U.S. every year. Brain cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death in patients younger than age 35. Brain cancer has surpassed Leukemia as the #1 childhood cancer. One out of every five people worldwide now has a pituitary tumor. To help give others hope, the family suggests a donation in Mark?s name to Hospice of the East Bay, the Bruns House or to the National Brain Tumor Society, in lieu of flowers. There will be a Celebration of Mark?s life on Saturday, January 16th at 3:00PM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 2601 San Ramon Valley Boulevard, San Ramon CA . A reception in the Church Hall will follow. For more information please call 510-865-0168.