Obituary of Mark DeSanctis

Mark DeSanctis died on April 14, 2023 while staying in his winter condo in West Palm Beach, Florida. 

Mark and his wife of almost 52 years, Kathy have enjoyed being snowbirds for many years.  Mark fought a valiant battle with liver cancer for the past 6 years.  Mark’s infectious laugh and wit made him a delight to be around. A larger than life character who always had a great story to share, Mark was engaging and keenly aware of the needs of others.  A caring husband, father and grandfather, Mark sure loved his time with his grandkids!  In retirement, Mark became quite the cook and loved to try new recipes on friends and family.  Season ticket holders for over 40 years to Syracuse University men’s basketball, Mark and Kathy were true Orange fans.

Mark was most proud of his children, son, Adam (Angela and sons, Gavin and Sam) of Swanton, Vt. and daughter, Sarah Neidert (Adam and daughters Grace and Audrey) of Brighton, Michigan. Mark is survived by his seven brothers and sisters who were a delight in his life- Dennis (Hilda), Harry, Bob (Dee), Nancy Klaske (John), Therese Gallo (Dan), Ellie DeSanctis and Mary Richmond (Mark). His loving in-laws include John Moran (Veronica), Judy Burton (Doug) and Rita Okoniewski (Joseph).

Mark had many lifelong as well as new friends with whom he enjoyed a meal and laughter. Mark had a Ph.D. from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree from LeMoyne College.  He is a graduate of Seton Catholic High School in Endicott, NY. Mark served as an officer for 3 years in the US Army.  A proud superintendent of schools for over 22 years, Mark was a respected leader in the school communities of The Catholic Diocese of Syracuse Schools, Chittenango Central Schools and Westhill Central Schools.

Calling hours will be at Edward J. Ryan Funeral Home at 3180 Bellevue Ave. from 4-6pm on May 17, 2023.  Funeral mass will be at noon at St. Charles - St. Anns Catholic Church, 501 S. Orchard Rd. on May 18, 2023 with burial to immediately follow at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery 4069 Howlett Hill Rd. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Mark’s name to: St. Charles-St. Ann’s Milk Ministry (4461 Onondaga Blvd., Syracuse) or the Food Bank of Central NY (7066 Interstate Island Rd., Syracuse, NY 13209).