Mark Warren Tunison

Whether in the classroom, pottery studio, pool, home or abroad, Mark inspired many to smile, explore new places and foods, and make art. He had a gift for seeing the positive in any situation and always left things better than he found them.

He discovered a love for water polo and swimming at Pacific High School and continued to swim and play water polo at Chabot College, where he met Judi Edwards in an English Class, during their first semester. They were married in 1970. Mark went on to complete his degree at San Jose State and then as a member of the Naval Reserves was sent to Vietnam, where he taught English to Vietnamese soldiers.

After a brief return to the US, Mark and Judi headed to Australia where they both taught for three years and brought home an incredible souvenir, their daughter Amy. Mark and Judi then found themselves relocating to Hanford for an art position at Hanford High, establishing their forever home and welcoming their twins, Adam and Christopher.

They made incredible friendships with their other Hanford transplants they lovingly referred to as "The Usual Suspects" sharing Viking weddings, TGIFs, travel adventures, and endless dinners and BBQs.

Mark's life was busy with his kids' activities which filled him with so much pride and then he got to play a new role, grandpa to Amy's children Sam and Kate along with Adam and daughter-in-law Julene's children Nick, Katie Mac, Reese and Layne. He and his grandkids could often be found together making art, at the zoo, going to the movies and eating as much Superior Dairy ice cream as possible.

Mark taught at Hanford High for 32 years teaching 2D art and jewelry and eventually ceramics for 15 years. Many of his years at Hanford High Mark could be found on the pool deck coaching diving, swimming and water polo. He gifted thousands of Bullpups with his knowledge, skill and compassion. His and his students beautiful and functional works of art can be found in homes far and wide across the Valley and beyond. He was both loved and respected by his students.

In 2004 Mark was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and in 2008 he and Judi retired to travel the world and create joy and memories with their family. He was blessed with family, friends, and caregivers who enriched his life up until the last days.

We were all lucky to have learned from Mark whether it was pottery, kindness or humanity.