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Mark Rapozo died quietly in his sleep on June 24, 2009, in Sonoma, Calif.

He was the beloved son of Geraldine and the late George Rapozo of San Rafael, and brother of Marty, Gerald and Karen Rapozo, and uncle of Ross, Nicole, Tyler and Gabriel Rapozo. Mark touched many lives in his 49 years among us. We are grateful for the moments he shared with us and the stories those moments generated. He was a unique person to walk in our world. He leaves us with deeply saddened hearts, for there will never be another like him.

No seat belt, crash helmet or petty regulation could hold Mark back. He was a hurricane force of nature, with a happy heart tucked inside an endless free spirit. His natural talent was in his very nimble fingertips and his tinkering ways. Born with a Snap-On wrench at his hip and a great intuitive curiosity, Mark never met a task he would back away from or an engine he couldn't pull apart. Apropos to his nature, Mark was born in the back of a '52 Mercury on May 7, 1960. Mark attended San Rafael public schools and graduated from San Rafael High School in 1978. His parents were amazed at his endless energy and unstoppable methods. Mark's thirst for life was unquenchable.

Mark was always devising a fishing trip, an engine to rebuild or an unforgettable adventure. If you caught him seated for a rare moment, chances are he was daydreaming and scheming of his next escape. When he left, you could only hear the sound of his tail pipe exhausts fading beyond Mark's red taillights. There was no way we could hope to catch up with him.

To see his long-sloping, open smile or hear his infectious laugh was to experience pure joy. Mark loved life as much as he loved thrills and leaving everyone in the dust. We will miss him dearly. His spirit soars with twin, high-octane jet engines and the throttle is wide open. A celebration of his life will be held at the Vintage House 264 First St. E., in Sonoma, Calif., on Sunday, July 26, 2009, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in Mark's name.

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