Mark Anthony Caballero
Mark Anthony Caballero, aged 75, passed away on September 10, 2024, in Walhalla, SC. Born on February 14, 1949, in Santa Barbara, Mark lived a life marked by devotion to his family and an unwavering spirit of generosity.
He is survived by his loving wife, Debra Kruljac.
His daughters: Stacy Caballero Goss (Scott), Nikki Caballero Zsigo (Konstantin)
Stepsons: Jeremiah Wonnacott (Heather), and Clint Wonnacott (Darlene Banks).
Mark’s joy was multiplied by his grandchildren, Marc Lido Spitzer and Joseph Wonnacott, who will miss their grandfather’s guidance and love.
Mark also leaves behind his siblings Daniel Caballero (Patricia), Marcia A. Stirl (Craig), Dora (Dori) Mendoza, Vickie Caballero (Sister Barbara), and Jimmy Caballero (Esther), along with many nieces, nephews, and a large extended family who cherished his presence in their lives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Maria Camou Cruz and Edward Gonzales Caballero, and his granddaughter, Serena Nicole Williford, and his beloved aunt Rita.
Mark grew up in Santa Barbara, CA surrounded by a large immediate and extended family. At 19 he enlisted, and became a paratrooper
and a soldier of the 101st airborne division of the screaming eagles with over 80 jumps.
He was a Vietnam combat veteran. He recieved 2 purple hearts and 1 bronze star. He was a decorated drill sergeant at Ft. Benning. He was a race relations counselor and an equal opportunity advisor.
He retired from the army after “20 years 9 days 4 hours”
He served as administrator for the March of Dimes, before going to school for massage therapy. He had a very successful 22 year career, meeting and helping so many wonderful people in the Brevard County FL area, and finally retiring in 2012.
In retirement he moved to South Carolina and had a hobby farm of Alpaca, goats, chickens, and lots of beautiful land. He bought himself a 25ft Bayfield sailboat and, became a member of the Keowee sailing club.
He loved riding his motorcycle, wood carving, dancing, theater, skating, sailing, the beach, and his hot tub. I can keep listing all of the things he enjoyed.
He knew how to enjoy life. It’s hard to describe the essence of someone like that. You just know you wanted to be around him. His energy was beautiful. He was the best man.
He always said a stranger is a friend yet to be met. It wasn’t just a saying. He lived that every day he left the house. He had a very whimsical way of connecting with people. You would never see him talking to anyone without a big smile on their face. He was the most amazing story teller whether it was real or made up. He could’ve been a success doing so many things.
In retirement, his best friend was Chakana a Great Pyrenees. They had a magical bond. She took such good care of him and the farm animals. She was so brave and attentive. I hope he gets to have her back now.
He made anything seem possible with the power of positive thinking. I’m positive if love could keep us alive he would still be with us today.
Mark’s life was a testament to the value of family, hard work, and kindness. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who knew him.