Mark Gandy
The family of Mark R. Grandy, shares that he departed on October 19, 2021 at the age of 78, in Cloverdale, Ca. He kept his courage and humor through the end and left in the comforts of his own home, and on his own terms, surrounded by love. He will be missed by his loving wife of 50 years, Xandra; daughter, Rebecca Quick (Randy); grandson, Oliver; siblings; Kathie Thorsted, Ben and Stephanie Grandy; stepmother Shirley Grandy (Col. Ben Grandy); cousins Virginia Sorenson (Perry), Chris Denton, and John Hyde (Jean); nieces and nephews; and childhood friend George Entenman. He will also be missed by his Cloverdale & Geyserville friends and his fellow firefighters at Geyserville Fire Department.
Mark was born on March 22, 1943 in Tacoma, Wash. to Col. Ben Grandy of the U.S. Marines and Anita (Kinberg) Christie, a teacher at Berkeley High. He graduated from Berkeley High School in 1961, and continued to UC Berkeley. He met Xandra in 1968 and moved to Sonoma County in 1971.
Mark was a lifelong learner and researched projects thoroughly before starting them. He was a self-taught carpenter, electrician, and plumber. He wrote long, thoughtful letters to others; some of his writings were published locally. After 34 years of service in the Geyserville Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, he retired to help take care of his ill mother. He continued to support GVFD as an Emeritus member and blood donor.
He was known for his humor, his stories, and the black vests he wore. He enjoyed helping others, gardening, music, and adding to his extensive quotes collection.
Friends and family may join us in a Celebration of Mark’s Life on Saturday, 2/5/22 at 2pm, at the Geyserville Grange/Oriental Hall(1000 CA-128, Geyserville,CA 95441).
Mark’s generous spirit reached many people and charities. Donations in his name may be made to the Northern Sonoma County Fire Dept. Donating blood, paying for the person behind you in line, and celebrating Groundhog Day, are some ways you can help honor Mark’s legacy.
