Marco "Mark" Antonio Solis

Marco Antonio Solis, affectionately known as Mark, age 49 went to be with his Lord and savior Jesus Christ on May 23rd, 2024. Mark was born on February 10th, 1975 to Jesus Arturo and Dalia Solis in Corpus Christi, TX. He was a proud Alumni of W.B. Ray High School, graduating class of 1993. After playing high school baseball for the Texans, he then went on to play at the collegiate level, attending San Jacinto College. He was a servant to the community, but more importantly, he was a servant of God. Mark served 23 years with the Corpus Christi Fire Department. His career and his personal life blended, as his brothers and sisters in the Fire Department became his second family. While battling his illness, he proudly served his community with a firm belief that circumstance does not change responsibility. Above being a firefighter, Mark’s true calling in life was being a father to his beautiful children. He was his children’s biggest hero, mentor, cheerleader, coach, and inspiration; and the love of Angela’s life. Not only did Mark coach his children, but he was a coach to many, as baseball was his passion. Mark’s hobbies included playing the guitar, softball, golf, and attending annual trips to the Frio River and Las Vegas. Mark took to carpentry to busy his hands, and built the very furniture his family and friends gathered around.

Mark leaves behind a loving wife, Angela; two beautiful daughters, Lauren Elizabeth Solis and Megan Mackenzie Solis; a son, Andrew Ryan Solis; and a stepson, Michael Ray Garcia Jr. He is also survived by his mother, Dalia Solis; a sister, Amy Solis (Armando); two brothers, Jesus A. (Melissa) Solis, and Eric J. (Lucy) Solis; the mother of his children, Lori Solis; and many nieces and nephews. Mark also left behind a beloved best friend, his dog Charlee. He is proceeded in death by his father, Jesus Arturo Solis; his grandparents, Cecilio R. and Josefina Solis and Rufino and Herminia Martinez Jr.

Mark’s infectious smile warmed the hearts of many. Regardless of the challenges faced, his demeanor never wavered as he modeled a true spouse, father, son, brother, and friend to all. Mark fundraised for others, perpetually selfless, a legacy of service to others that his children proudly inherit. During a time where most would understandably retreat, Mark pushed through, gifting his energy, his time and his talents to the people he loved most, his family, his CCFD brothers and sisters, and his community. Mark was determined to leave the world better than he found it. Throughout his journey, Mark illustrated his motto to “win the day,” a motto that many of his family and friends now emulate. In the end, when his beloved brother Eric questioned God, “Why him?” a voice in his head whispered, “because God needs heroes, too.”

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center for the wonderful care Mark received. They would also like to thank the doctors that cared for Mark, especially Dr. Phat Le, Dr. Abhineet Uppal, and Dr. Eric Haas. Moreover, a special thanks to all the families and friends that sent countless blessings and prayers throughout his courageous fight.

Public visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024 at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 8200 Old Brownsville Rd., Corpus Christi, TX. A Rosary will be presented by family at 7:00 p.m. to then be followed by Expressions of Love for those that would like to speak of Mark. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, June 5th, 2024 at Corpus Christi Christian Fellowship, 6602 South Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX. Open visitation and viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Procession and burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery and then reception and gathering at Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Association Union Hall, 6014 Ayers St., Corpus Christi, TX, after the service.