Mark Candioto Obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mark Howard Candioto on
January 24, 2025 at the age of 59. Succumbing to a 5-month cancer battle, he passed
away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family.
Mark was born on April 18, 1965 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Jack and Janice
(Zimmerman) Candioto. He grew up in Barrington, Rhode Island with his three brothers.
After graduating high school, and a short stint at the University of Rhode Island, Mark
moved to Phoenix, Arizona where he managed restaurants and eventually graduated
from Arizona State University and Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law.
Mark married Debra Young on October 16, 1993. Mark and Debbie were married
for 12 years and had two children, Alyssa and John. Debbie passed away in 2006 from
complications related to rheumatoid arthritis, leaving Mark heartbroken. Mark eventually
reconnected with an old law school friend, JoEllen (Paskell) Benton, whom he married
and helped raise her two young children, Vernon and Brenda.
Mark and JoEllen had two children together, Elizabeth and Nicholas, which
completed their very happy family of eight. In addition to Mark's incredible love and
commitment to his family, Mark enjoyed a successful career as a family law attorney. He
was involved with organizations such as The Arthritis Foundation, Scottsdale
Leadership, Child Crisis Arizona, Business Network International and Shepherd of the
Desert Lutheran Church.
Mark was passionate, and his drive and inquisitiveness led all his pursuits. He
was known for his warmth and generosity, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
His kindness knew no bounds, always ready with a listening ear, a helping hand, and a
kind word for anyone in need. A true friend to many, Mark had a remarkable ability to
connect with others, making everyone feel seen and valued.
Mark had a passion for cooking and was always making something tasty to share
with family and friends. He also enjoyed music and loved attending concerts. He had a
thirst for knowledge, whether it was in advancing in his career, helping others with
unwavering benevolence, or mastering every challenge on game shows. He will be
missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.
Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Janice Candioto, his brother
Jeff, and his first wife Debbie (Young) Candioto. He is survived by his second wife,
JoEllen, his children, Alyssa (Luke) Crown, John, Elizabeth and Nicholas Candioto, his
stepchildren, Vernon Benton and Brenda (Hunter) Hahn, his grandchildren, Aidan,
Everly, and Theodosia and his brothers David (Cherryl) and Michael Candioto.
A Memorial Service will be held at Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church on
Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:00 am. Flowers and donations can be made to
Shepherd of the Desert. Mark's unwavering faith brings comfort to all who knew him,
knowing that he is now resting in eternity with the Lord, where his spirit will forever find
peace.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mark, please visit our floral store.