Mark Robinson

Robinson, Mark Norman
1953 - 2012
Mark Robinson died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family. Mark was born June 22, 1953 in Hawthorne, California to Noel and Wilma Robinson. He died on October 5, 2012 after a four year struggle with a brain tumor. Growing up in Manhattan Beach, Mark would comment with pleasure that all the schools he attended had been demolished, including Aviation High School where he graduated in 1971. Mark was a talented athlete, Lettering in wrestling and football, and was a member of the El Camino College National Championship Football Team in 1971. A gifted artist, Mark parlayed his childhood ambidextrous coloring and drawing skills into a BFA from Cal State University Long Beach. Graduating, or "breaking out" as he referred to it, in 1977 he embarked on a successful career as a graphic designer and photographer. In 1986 he married Karen Simpson and they settled into a busy life of family and friends, travel, food, and home restoration. In 1996 daughter Lana joined the team and a new wave of fun and adventures began. Mark was in constant motion moving from one project to another, cycling and smokin his friends on the hills, hiking and camping, perfecting his barbeque skills, and building things. In 2008 Mark was diagnosed with a rare brain stem tumor. He faced the disease with courage, determination, and humor. His family is especially thankful for great health insurance and the compassionate, skilled team at Cedars-Sinai Neuro-Oncology, including Surasak Phuphanich MD, Rebecca Naor PA-C, and Joanna Wilson RN. Their expertise and knowledge gave them more precious time with Mark. He is survived by his wife Karen and daughter Lana; parents Noel and Wilma Robinson, brother Vince (Maria) Robinson; sister-in-law Debbie Robinson; and many nieces, nephews and brothers-in-law. His family is especially grateful to Niece Andrea Robinson and dear friends Mindy and Phil Friess who were so supportive during his illness.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at 3:00 PM at The Neighborhood Church, Palos Verdes Estates, California. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mark's memory to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center - Department of Neuro Oncology which will allow them to continue with their research https://giving.cedars-sinai.edu/robinson