Mark Jerome DeFrances

Mark Jerome Defrances, 88, of 3567 South Newport Place, Chandler, Arizona, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on June 6, 1937, in Baltimore, Maryland, Mark lived a life defined by service, resilience, and love.

After graduating from Mount Saint Joseph's High School in Baltimore, Mark joined the United States Air Force in 1956. His distinguished 20-year career in the US Air Force, where he attained the rank of Master Sergeant, included roles as a Telecommunications Operations Supervisor and a Public Affairs Technician.

His first tour was Germany and in 1970 served in Vietnam. A Vietnam Veteran, Mark served with honor in 12 countries, earning the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars. Despite health challenges from Agent Orange exposure, he carried his military pride after he finished his service in 1980 and entered civilian life. After the military, Mark lived overseas and worked as a Public Affairs Specialist in the Philippines.

In July 1998, Mark married his beloved Natividad Cura Defrances in Manila, Philippines, beginning a partnership filled with devotion and shared adventures. Known for his love for travel, Mark cherished exploring and showing what the United States has to offer to his loved ones, from West Coast to East Coast.

Mark is survived by his wife, Natividad; sons Mark, Alex and Christian; daughters Denise, Krista, Lovelyn and Joyceann; grandchildren Eric, Isaiah, Liam and Wyatt; and brother Roch. He was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy and Roy; sister, Penny; the twins, Rochelle and Jerome; and grandson, Nicholas.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness and courage. Mark was loved as he loved