A Tribute to Mark Cooan

Mark Cooan was the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward. He had a larger-than-life personality, an infectious smile, and a heart that was even bigger than his laugh. Loud at times, funny, outgoing, loyal, and endlessly generous, Mark had a way of making everyone around him feel welcomed, appreciated, and part of the moment.

He loved life. Whether it was camping trips, weekends at the river with his wife Kristi, working on cars, listening to music, or riding the dunes at Oceano with lifelong friends, Mark lived with energy and enthusiasm. He was never afraid to get his hands dirty and was always willing to help someone in need. That willingness to show up for people became one of the qualities everyone admired most about him.

Mark’s career reflected his work ethic and dedication. He began helping his father at the family gas station, learning early on the value of hard work. In the late 1980s, he started working at Modern Video Film in Hollywood, beginning as a clerk pulling tape orders before working his way up to Assistant Editor. Later, he joined New Wave, where he became a respected Assistant Editor and Tape Operator. Mark was deeply valued by the people he worked with, and after his passing, New Wave honored his memory by naming the tape room after him — a lasting tribute to the impact he made there.

Family meant everything to Mark. He loved his mother and father deeply and remained close to them throughout their lives. When he married Kristi, he embraced her children as his own without hesitation. They adored him, and he loved them wholeheartedly. To Mark, family wasn’t limited by blood — it was built through love, loyalty, and being present for the people who mattered.

For those who knew Mark personally, the memories are endless: working on trucks together, laughing around campfires, riding the dunes, sharing stories, and simply enjoying life. His warmth, humor, and kindness left an impression that cannot be replaced.

Mark’s Celebration of Life brought together hundreds of people — family, childhood friends, coworkers, and loved ones from every chapter of his life. Their stories and presence spoke volumes about the kind of man he was and the lives he touched along the way.

More than anything, Mark will be remembered as someone who loved deeply, lived fully, and made people feel grateful to have known him.

Live and love like Mark.

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Site launched June 3, 2026