Mark Mazzaferro, a prominent journalist and public servant in Vallejo and Vacaville, passed away on December 9, 2023, at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with cancer. His legacy in both the journalism world and the local community is marked by deep connections and significant contributions, making his loss profoundly felt by many.
Mazzaferro’s career began at the Times-Herald, where he held various roles including outdoors writer, sports writer, and restaurant critic, before becoming city editor. His dedication to his craft earned him the respect of colleagues and community members alike. Jack F.K. Bungart, Executive Editor of the Times-Herald, reflected on their friendship, stating, “Mark was a force of nature — in our building, in this city, and indeed, in Solano County.” He described Mazzaferro as a man of integrity, decency, and kindness, emphasizing that his character far surpassed his notable professional achievements.
Mazzaferro transitioned from journalism to public service, first serving as the Public Information Officer for Vallejo. In this role, he utilized his extensive knowledge of the community to effectively communicate with residents and media. Former Vallejo Mayor Tony Intintoli praised Mazzaferro’s abilities, stating, “He knew the community so well… He did such a great job in that role because of that and his personality.” His prior experience at the Times-Herald played a crucial role in his success as a public information officer, allowing him to connect with key community figures easily.
Following his time in Vallejo, Mazzaferro moved to Vacaville, where he served as the city’s Public Information Officer for nearly 13 years until his retirement in 2019. Former Vacaville Mayor Len Augustine described him as “the best person I ever met,” highlighting his dedication and compassion. Augustine noted that Mazzaferro was an invaluable asset to the city, particularly in enhancing communication through the city’s website and local broadcasts, ensuring residents were informed about significant events.
Mazzaferro’s impact extended beyond his professional life. He is remembered fondly by friends and colleagues for his warmth and humor. Bungart shared a touching memory of their time together, saying, “To work a shift with Mark was to wonder why you were even being paid in the first place. We laughed. We cracked jokes. We sang.” Their bond remained strong, especially during Mazzaferro’s illness, with Bungart expressing gratitude for the opportunity to cherish their friendship until the end.
In lieu of flowers, family and friends have requested donations to the American Cancer Society in Mazzaferro’s memory. Private services are set to be held at a later date. His contributions to journalism and public service will be remembered, and he will be deeply missed by the community he served with passion and dedication.
