A Life Well-Lived

Born on May 10, 1966, in Moline, Illinois, Mark was the son of Charles and Mary Lou Massa. He met his best friend and life partner, Lisa Ricci, at Illinois Wesleyan University, and they married on August 5, 1989. Together, they created a beautiful life filled with travel adventures, a passion for fine food, and cherished moments with their children, Zachary and Haley. Mark’s career in pharmaceutical discovery research spanned over 30 years at Pfizer, where he retired as a Senior Principal Scientist earlier in 2025.

A Man of Many Passions

Mark was known for his curiosity and hands-on approach to life. He enjoyed tinkering and could repair just about anything around the house. He loved traveling the world with his family, entertaining friends at home, swimming with his dog Grizzly, crafting cocktails, listening to jazz music, home brewing, and savoring a good bourbon. He was also an excellent napper, often found seeking out a comfy spot to rest after a holiday meal.

A Legacy of Love and Strength

Mark is survived by his wife, Lisa; his children, Zachary and fiancée Sami Gibson, and Haley; his parents, Charles and Mary Lou Massa; his brother, John (Gina) Massa; his sister, Kristin (Rob) Davis; his brother-in-law, Joseph (Christy) Ricci; and many nieces and nephews. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his work, and his ability to bring joy to those around him.