Mark Robert LaPaglia

Mark Robert LaPaglia, 45, of Hereford, Arizona, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024. He was born on September 2, 1979, in Casa Grande to Richard LaPaglia, Jr. and Mary LaPaglia. He shared an eventful upbringing with his seven siblings.

Mark was a gifted musician. He played the piano and trumpet, and composed music. His love of cycling began with his youth minister and became a lifelong pursuit. As a young man, Mark was a professional BMX racer, and later, the proud owner of a bicycle shop. As the founder and first coach of Buena High School's mountain biking team, Mark led them to their first state championship, inspiring countless young athletes along the way. One of his proudest moments was crafting the wheels for a member of the 2024 U.S. BMX Olympic Team.

Mark's commitment to service extended beyond his community. While in college, he worked as a missionary in Bolivia and provided hurricane relief after Katrina.

In 2002, Mark met the love of his life, Tana Marie Smith, at Vennard College in University Park, Iowa. Together, they built a life full of love, partnership, and purpose. Tana's steady and loving presence complemented Mark's adventurous and creative spirit. They were blessed with two daughters, Alexa and Kyra, whom he cherished deeply.

Mark's legacy is one of love, generosity, and passion. He will be remembered for his warm smile, boundless energy, and the joy he brought to everyone he encountered.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Tana; daughters Alexa and Kyra; and countless family members.

A service honoring Mark's life will be held at Village Meadows Baptist Church in Sierra Vista on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 3 p.m.

Mark was passionate about giving to his community. His family asks that you honor his memory with a donation to the following organizations that were close to his heart:

-- Good Neighbor Alliance at 
https://svshelter.org/

-- The Buena High School Mountain Bike Club at https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/catalog/getproduct?requestAction=&clientKey=ZZH54DXC05082UR&productGroupKey=ZZ60YSNP81XVC9D&view=&productKey=ZZ5S8T8FBJRZ1VS&isStorePreview=

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