Mark Payne

Mark Steven (Mimito) Payne, age 67, passed away on July 11, 2020 in Houston, TX. He was born on December 18, 1952 In Fontana California, to Helen Warren and Ralph Payne. Mark was the oldest of 6 siblings (Lynn Joe Payne, Lydia Payne, Cindy Wilson, Shirley Foster, Johnny Dishop, and Sandy Dishop).

Mark grew up on Chino, California with his lovely siblings during his school years. Later he spent his teenage years in Montclair, California and Ontario, California. After he graduated High School he enlisted to the U.S Army to serve his country. He was in active service in Los Angeles California, September 03, 1971. Last overseas service: Vietnam USATSCH, Fort Eustis, VA – UH-1 Helicopter Repairman Course; Basic Leadership Course. He earned the National Defense Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star; Sharpshooter (Rifle). He was honorably discharged from active duty on September 03, 1977 – Servicing and risking his life for his country for 6 years. Mark was a soldier, a hero, and great warrior.

Between 1981 and 1985 he graduated from Chaffey College receiving his Associate degree in Science. Then went on to receive his Bachelor of Science from Tusculum College.

He served Raytheon System for 22 years, from September 21, 1987 retiring February 1st 2010. Mark accepted promotion to Raytheon System office In Tucson, AZ in 2003 as an engineer. Mark was well respected in his field during the 22 years of service.

On July 04, 2005, Mark met the love his life, Blanca Payne, in the funniest way, through his neighbor (Dunia – Blanca’s aunt). Mark knew that she was meant for him and decided to take in her kids as his own (Milizen Palma, Yeison Oliva). On December 30, 2005, they tied the knot. On July 2006, the Payne family was wonderfully surprised to find out that there was a new member on the way. On December 03, 2006, “Daddy’s little girl” Kimberly Payne, was born. Mark loved his family and was deeply devoted to his wife and kids.

On June 2010, Mark and his family decided to move to Houston, TX. He enjoyed living his retired life in his forever home with his wife and kids. Mark was the best husband, father, grandfather and oldest big brother to his siblings. He always went out of his way to make sure his family was content and taken care of.

Mark was a hardworking, strong, loving man who enjoyed fishing, camping, target shooting, reading books; OHHHHH! And don’t forget about the love he had for a bag of popcorn every day after 6pm.

Mark will always be loved, never forgotten, and forever be missed. Sometimes you don’t know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. The memories he gave us will forever be in our hearts.