Mark Samuel Paletta, Sr., 71, passed away Wednesday, June 7, 2023, in Washington, PA. He was born March 23, 1952 in Washington, PA the son of the late Samuel Mark Paletta and Mary Ann Manzella Paletta and remained a resident of the city of Washington his entire life.

As a junior high wrestler, Mark achieved State Champion status. He graduated from Washington High School. As a young father and provider, Mark always worked hard, often multiple jobs simultaneously. He had been employed by Tri State Engineering, was a driver for G.G. & C. Bus Company, as well as being a business owner.

He was bandana’d, bearded, big hearted, and tattooed. Mark was well appreciated for his generosity, kindness, and being fun and funny. The gold he wore reflected his Italian heritage, faith, and personal style. Mark enjoyed televised boxing, camping, fall festivals, favorite restaurants, and attending Alabama concerts. He was a sports fan of Roberto Duran, Jack Lambert, and Mike Webster. He spent pleasurable hours listening to music, his favorites being The DOORS and DIO. Late evenings were spent watching “Seinfeld”, “Twighlight Zone”, “Heavy Rescue” and the 1941 classic Universal movie “The Wolfman” was a treasured Halloween night tradition.

Mark had an affinity for nature. He took long walks with his beloved dog, Buddy on the trails at Washington and Mingo Parks. Mark was fond of land and sea turtles, as well as the sweet scent of wild honeysuckle, which happened to be in bloom during his final days. An avid cook, Mark often held two Thanksgiving dinners, one in November and another in February. He was known for serving large portions of ancestral Italian favorites at home family gatherings.

Mark is survived by two sons, Mark (Sherri) Paletta, Jr. of Washington and Michael (Shelly) Paletta of Irwin as well as two grandchildren, Mark Paletta III and Riley Paletta and a brother, Jamie (Julie) Paletta of Apollo.

Mark lived the past twenty one years with his friend and companion, Donna King. A unique bond, one of many, Mark and Donna were both born under the Sign of the Dragon. Also, sharing a love for their dogs and cats, Brooke, Cooper, Mojo, Kit-Kit and Goldie who are wondering and waiting for Mark’s return home.

Special thanks to friend, neighbor and caregiver, Brandon. Special thanks to longtime friend, neighbor and watchful protector Mike. A final home visit and embrace from Wendy brought Mark a comforting surprise and spark of joy. Also, we are grateful to the Dedicated Doctors and Angel Nurses in Washington Hospital in Emergency Room #2. They compassionately attended to Mark during his final moments.

In accordance with Mr. Paletta’s wishes, there will be no visitation, no funeral or final fussery.

Whichever decade you knew him, clearly, Mark had to be experienced “LIVE and in PERSON”.

Mark held a long deep sadness for friends he lost during the Vietnam War. Remembrance contributions may be made to a Veteran’s organization of choice, or to Brooke County Animal Shelter in West Virginia.

To Mark......Love, Peace and Blessed Be.

All funeral arrangements are private and are under the direction of the Warco-Falvo Funeral Home, Inc., Wilson at E. Katherine Ave., Washington, S. Timothy Warco, Owner/Supervisor, S. Timothy Warco II, Director, Holly Renay Warco, Director, Park N. Crosier, Director. Condolences may be expressed at www.WarcoFalvoFuneralHome.com

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