Mark J. Pacheco

Mark Jess Pacheco was born on August 23rd, 1959, in Galesburg, IL. The son of Jesse & Carmen Pacheco. He was preceded in death by his father and sister, Karen Martinez. Mark is survived by two sons, Jacob (Brittany) Gibson, of Mansfield, TX; and Adam (Alyssa) Pacheco, of Galesburg, IL, as well as one daughter, Mary Alexa Pacheco, of Galesburg, IL. Mark (aka Papa) was adored by his seven grandchildren, Brence & Brooklyn Gibson, of Texas; Izabella & Aven Pacheco, of Galesburg; as well as Giovanni, Angelo & Romelia Pacheco, of Galesburg, Illinois. He was a man from humble beginnings, raised on Liberty St., in Galesburg, IL. He grew to be a natural caretaker and guardian for his siblings. He attended Galesburg High School and graduated in the class of ‘77. Mark served eleven years in the United States Marine Corps. After his discharge from the Marines, he started a family and embarked on his first entrepreneurial endeavor, “The Bodyworks”. He went on to start a career, working for the city of Galesburg for 27 years, while simultaneously maintaining his vocation of pouring concrete for many local businesses and residents. He continued in his pursuit to leave a lasting legacy through his ownership of The Patio Bar & Grill, which he owned for the past 16 years. It is evident through his career history alone that he was a dedicated hard worker, and a living symbol of the “work hard, play hard” mentality. Mark was truly the life of the party and always made sure to accommodate everyone around him. He is remembered by many as a kind-hearted, passionate, and hard-headed individual.Friends and family that knew Mark in his adolescence and into his young adulthood will likely recall his carefree spirit and drive for life successes. He was an avid runner, devoted husband, and firm, yet loving father. His life was filled with laughter, music, dancing, singing, and often giving far more than he would receive. His ability to light up a room within moments was unique in and of its own right. In the most recent years, you would find Mark hanging out with long-time friends, at home with his dog Margo, dancing to cumbia, or spending time with his family. I can say with assurance that it is with heavy hearts that the time has come to reflect on and honor his life and legacy, as it was and will forever be. Mark was a truly remarkable, genuine soul. He lived by his own terms and many can agree that it was a blessing to have known him in your lifetime. If Mark was here today he would likely say, “we are here for a good time, not a long time, and you know, that’s just how it goes -- poompt poompt.” Mark - rest in peace, free of pain and earthly worries. Visitation will be 11a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Graveside services with military rites will follow at 1:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg.  Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, face masks and social distancing will be required.  Memorials may be made to the family for an education fund for Mark's grandchildren.  Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com .