Mark P. Garnica

Mark Garnica, 71, of Davenport, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at his home following a brave three-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Cremation has been accorded and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Private inurnment was at National Cemetery, Rock Island.

Mark Phillip Garnica was born on June 15, 1955, in Davenport, to Joseph Gabriel and Frances Marie Garnica.

Mark attended West High School in Davenport, before enlisting in the United States Navy on August 31, 1973. After serving four years in the Navy, he returned to Davenport, where he lived for the remainder of his life. His time in the Navy sparked a lifelong love of boating and water activities. Mark enjoyed taking family and friends out on the river, as well as spending peaceful time there on his own.

Following his military service, Mark began his career with the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, Local 81, commonly known as Insulators Local 81. He worked hard throughout his career and retired on April 11, 2012.

Mark had a strong work ethic from an early age. As a teenager, he worked on his uncle’s farm near Bennett, Iowa, where he developed a love for horses. He went on to win grand champion in the quarter horse division at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds. One memorable story from those years was how he convinced his mother to transport a newly purchased pony in the back seat of her Camaro, with the pony’s head sticking out the window.

Retirement did not slow Mark down for long. He began a second career as a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE), Local 85. Mark truly loved his work and deeply valued the relationships he built with his IATSE union family. He shared a strong bond with his fellow union members, who were an important part of his life. His commitment, dedication, and strong work ethic were recognized and appreciated by everyone who had the opportunity to work alongside him. Mark had a passion for staying busy, and even after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he continued to work as often as he could. He faced his illness with determination and remained committed to living life on his own terms.

Mark married Lisa Marie Doughty in 1991. They shared 35 years of marriage and loved entertaining family and friends, whether spending time together on their boat or welcoming loved ones into the beautiful home they shared.

Mark was also a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Elks, Illinois Chapter, in Rock Island, Illinois. He believed deeply in the lodge’s community programs and charitable work supporting veterans and the military, youth programs, and scholarships. Mark proudly achieved the position of Exalted Ruler, serving as the lodge’s executive head and president. In this role, he oversaw general operations, chaired meetings, and appointed committee members. His service to the lodge and his community was a source of great pride.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa; her son, Jamie Doughty; his brothers Greg and sister-in-law Pam, Ken and sister-in-law Karen, Jeff and sister-in-law Barbara, Carl Garnica, and Michael and Tonya; and his sister, Marcia Booth, and Scott. Also remembering Mark with love are Tony Watts and Leah Watts Bohrer, who held a special place in his heart.

Mark was preceded in death by his father, Joseph G. Garnica; his mother, Frances M. Garnica; and his sister, Gabriela M. Shepard.

Mark’s family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Ohl Foundation for the incredible ways this wonderful organization touches lives throughout our community. Founded in 2019, the foundation partners with local health systems to support patients and families facing pancreatic cancer.

Through direct financial assistance, “Make a Memory” grants, education, and awareness, the Ohl Foundation provides support that reaches far beyond financial help. Just as importantly, the foundation fosters meaningful connections with patients and their families, offering compassion, understanding, and support during some of life’s most difficult moments.

The family extends a special thank-you to Peggy Ohl and all the dedicated volunteers who make this organization what it is. Your kindness, compassion, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of so many families, including ours. We are deeply grateful for all you do and for the support you provide to those facing pancreatic cancer.

Online remembrances may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.