Mark's obituary
In Loving Memory of Mark Samuel Ranieri
With deep heartbreak, we share that Mark Samuel Ranieri, age 51, passed away peacefully on November 30th , 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Mark was born July 16th, 1974 at North York General Hospital and built his life in St. Catharines—a life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and devotion to the people who mattered most.
Above all else, Mark was a proud and devoted father. His children, Hannah and Seth, were the center of his world. Every achievement, every dance, every game, every new step in their lives filled him with pride. Mark supported them with everything he had, cheering them on, guiding them, and loving them with a depth that defined who he was. He leaves in them the best parts of himself.
Mark is deeply loved by his wife of 23 years, Glenna (née Hansen), his partner through joys, challenges, and all the everyday moments in between. Together, they built a family grounded in love and humour, and all who knew them could feel the strength of that bond.
A high-rise carpenter by trade, Mark took great pride in building things that stood strong—both in his work and in his relationships. He was known for his quick wit, his fluent sarcasm, and the kind of gruff charm that hid an incredibly soft heart. Mark was the guy who showed up, who helped without being asked, who made people laugh even on hard days. Many will remember him as the “gruffest softie” they ever met. He built lifelong friendships, including his dear friends Brent and Steve, who will miss his humour, loyalty, and presence tremendously.
Mark coached with the SCMBA Cobras, and served as a convenor on the board for a number of years. Through coaching, he touched the lives of countless young athletes—teaching not just skills, but confidence, teamwork, and heart.
He will be profoundly missed by his mother Benitta Wilcox, brothers Steve (Svetlana) Ranieri and Victor (Lauren) Ranieri, stepmother Margaret Ranieri, father-in-law Bob Hansen, mother-in-law Irene Blokhuis, stepfather-in-law Ken Grosskurth, and stepsisters-in-law Samantha (Paul) Pischedda and Alex (Jordan) Weldon. He cherished his nieces—Brielle ( who was crazy about Uncle Mark), Palmer, Elaina, Addison, and Lola. Mark is predeceased by his father, Sam Ranieri and his sisters-in-law Stephanie Hansen and Elizabeth Sanders.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many people who cared for Mark:
Dr. Jedrzejko (GNGH); Dr. Thermabala and the staff at the Walker Cancer Centre; the stroke and palliative teams at Hamilton General Hospital and GNGH, special mention to the Social Workers Kathryn and Nicole.
Deepest appreciation is given to Dr. Khan and the remarkable team at Hospice Niagara Walker House in Welland, whose gentleness and compassionate care brought comfort to Mark in his final days. Their kindness will never be forgotten.
Celebration of Life:
December 19, 2025
2:00–6:00 p.m.
Club LaSalle,
111 Arthur St, St. Catharines, ON L2M 1B7
In His Memory
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Niagara, or Mac Kids
Mark leaves behind a legacy of love, humour, and quiet strength. Mark will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his humour, and the kindness he showed throughout his life. He built a beautiful life, and his memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.
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