Mark "Shorty" Gomez

Got an email today from Legacy regarding the coming anniversary of Mark's being called up to the Big Lineup in the Sky. I think of Mark often; of course when at the ballpark but also just about any time I have a deep conversation. As mentioned in the entry I posted just after New Year's Day, Mark had a way of making my mood change for the better just by the mere thought of him. In the days since my last season I made several changes in my life. I have decided that for me the pinnacle of...

The first thoughts that come to me of Mark Gomez are of a gentle, thoughtful, God loving man who exemplified Christ right here on earth. Everyone who came in contact with Mark instantly respected and loved this friendly man who had always had a smile no matter what. He treated all people with courtesy and consideration. I was privileged to spend some time with Mark and his caring wife, Karen, on a too short visit to Arkansas six months or so before he moved to his heavenly home. I have some...

Dear Karen;

Thank you for sharing your dear husband, Mark, with us! We saw how this wonderful and kind man shook your world and made you smile all the time. Most recently, thank you for visiting us in Arkansas; we will treasure the many memories of that visit -- making homemade Mexican food and how Mark savored it and enjoyed it, and the trip to Branson and the great food, entertainment and shopping. We have so many great memories, especially on this, one of his last trips –...

God blesses us with a multitude of acquaintances and a few friends. Friends are a special class – some we see daily and some rarely. Mark was that special friend who touched my life and blessed it richly. Time and circumstance separated us geographically but the spirit of love in his twinkling eyes and warm smile never faded. Mark was one of those rare people who gave of himself completely and unselfishly. He deeply cared for those around him even when he was ill. When some people talk...

Karen,
I'm very sorry that I foundout this late.
I was his hair stylist and just want you to know that he was my inspiration,he shear me up when I told him about my business plan, I agree with all the nice comments all your friends and loveones said. R.I.P Mark Gomez

We have know Mark for 38 yrs. First at La Pinata Mexican Restaurant where he was the weekend bartender. He was working in constrution and was at our house fixing everything in site. He loved our two boys making small tool belts for them so they could feel they were helping. He then went to work for Dixieline. Mark told us his life story over the years. We think it's important that people know that Mark saved a San Diego police officiers life. When a man was shooting at the officier Mark...

A GREAT CHARACTER: Thank you (San Diego Union Tribune) for acknowledging the passing of Padres usher, Mariano "Mark" Gomez last Sunday. Even though he was 82, his death was shocking because he lookeed and acted 20 years younger. Mark was beloved by both his co-workers and the fans who were lucky enough to get to know him in his Field Level sections at Qualcomm Stadium and Petco Park. When he asked how you were doing or how your family was, you could tell that he really cared about you.

Mark - a fighter

Humble beginnings
-Immigrant mother
-Struggling childhood
-Often mad at the world

Defiant youth
-Boys Town shaped his values and faith

Loyal
-To mother and family
He would do anything possible to be supportive
-To his country
He was a proud Marine.
Did you ever see his salute for the Marine's Hymn at
the Padres' games?
-To his...

Karen,
I really got close to Mark the evening you and he were celebrating your wedding anniversary. Field level, near section 19. You had set up a table cloth over a picnic table and had all kinds of cheese & crackers and marinated mushrooms. Mark implored me to join you and I felt like it would be intruding, it was your night! That was the only time I really saw Mark speak sternly, he absolutely insisted that I join the celebration!
Before that night, Mark and I always shared a...