Mark Anthony Canchola, 63, of Saint Joseph, Missouri, was born on June 1, 1962, and passed away on December 7, 2025. A proud United States Marine, Mark served his country with honor and dedication. He achieved the rank of Lance Corporal (LCpl) and worked as a Freight Operations Clerk (MOS 3111) during his service.
Mark was stationed for 15 months in Okinawa, Japan, an experience that shaped much of his strength, discipline, and worldview. His service earned him several distinctions, including the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. He also completed two years of trade school in welding during his military career.
Mark lived and spoke the Marine Corps motto “Semper Fi” — always faithful. It was a phrase he believed in deeply and carried in his heart every day.
Mark was known for his generosity, his humor, and his fierce loyalty to the people around him. He proudly considered himself the neighborhood watch, and there wasn’t a person in the area he didn’t know. He enjoyed getting to know everyone, watching out for them, and making sure they were safe. He also spent many hours at Gann’s Bait & Tackle, where he proudly declared himself their unofficial apprentice — loud, proud, and always full of character. Gardening and landscaping brought him peace and pride, due to his amazing work.
Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Canchola (September 2025); his father, Jessie Canchola (April 2009); and his sister, Ramona “Mona” Canchola (March 2007).
He is survived by his children, Catherine Canchola (DeJuan) and Jessica Canchola (Phil); his grandchildren, Mikayla Canchola (Steven), Mariah Williams, Maleah Urbina, Elijah Clark, Ai’Vah Canchola, Giovanni Canchola, and Da’Vier Canchola; his great-grandson, Jaxton Monroe; and his siblings, Dominic Canchola, Vincent Canchola, and Gloria Canchola (Teri).
Mark will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, his unstoppable work ethic, and the way he cared fiercely for his family and community. His legacy lives on in all who loved him. Once a Marine, always a Marine. Semper Fi.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 A.M. Friday, December 12, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Parish Rosary 6:30 P.M. Thursday December 11, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. The family will gather with friends 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday December 11, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. The family suggests memorial gifts to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church or to The Crossing Outreach Ministry Food.
