Chief Warrant Officer Mark Anthony Bristol, 54, of Fresno died tragically and suddenly on Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in rural Fresno County from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Mark was the respected head of the NJROTC Program at Parlier High School for the last 8 years. His career in the United States Navy spanning 28 years made him a natural for the leadership of the Program at Parlier High School.
An Officer and a Gentleman he helped mold and shape the character of numerous student cadets. His passing has left a tremendous void in every life he touched. Mark joined the United States Navy in 1984 as an Aviation Ordnanceman, in which he served 28 year of zealous and faithful service. Retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer, affectionally everyone called him “Gunner”. There he gained much of his education to include a Master’s Degree from Brandman University. Upon his Honorable Discharge from the United States Navy, he began working for Parlier High School and did so until time of his death.
Mark was a beloved teacher and highly respected NJROTC Instructor not only at Parlier High School, but throughout the NJROTC California and Arizona community.
Mark was a tall man, walked with confidence, those attributes got the attention of everyone in the room. Gunner was firm, fair and consistent in every decision he made. He had a certain way to motivate people. Mark was a very demanding, but caring and compassionate person. His mentorship and influence will live on through his children, loved ones, Sailors, NJROTC students, colleagues and friends who loved him dearly. Gunner truly had a servant’s soul, always willing to help where needed.
Mark left this world doing what he loved most. Mark was an avid motorcyclist for most of life enjoying spending time with friends on motorcycle rides across the region. He never cared which direction he was headed, as long as he was moving forward with the wind in his face. Mark thoroughly enjoyed discovering the natural beauties of this country, always ready for a new adventure.
Mark was born to William and Patricia Bristol in Cheyenne, Wyoming, he grew up in Greeley Colorado up until his sophomore year in High School when he relocated to Turpin Oklahoma where he graduated from High School.
Mark was preceded in death by his stepfather Joe Forrest, his father William Bristol and by his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his wife of 5 months, Lori Lima Bristol of Fresno, California, his mother Ann Forrest, his brother Michael Bristol, sister-in law Denise of Colorado, his daughter Jaime Bristol of Hanford, California and his son and Tanner Bristol of Clovis, California. As well as aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces.
Mark and Lori met in March 2018 and it was a whirlwind of love, laughter and happiness. So much so, they were married in March of 2019. They shared total devotion and admiration for each other. Neither of their friends or family had ever seen either of them so happy. They enjoyed so many things together, she would help with his students, going on fieldtrips as a chaperone. He had a passion for riding, the two summers they spent together was filled with traveling the states with their good friends. Mark thoroughly enjoyed living in the country, working around the yard, chatting with neighbors, he was in his element.
Visitation will be on Friday, August 23, 2019 from 3 to 7 PM at the Wallin Funeral Home in Parlier, 7942 S. Mendocino Avenue, Parlier, CA 93648. A Celebration of Life Service will be held August 24th, 2019, Saturday 11:00 am at Reedley Community Center, 100 N. East Avenue, Reedley, CA. Mark’s ashes will be laid to rest at a later date. The Service will conclude at the Community Center.
Remembrances in Mark Bristol’s memory may be sent to the Parlier High School, NJROTC Program, 603 3rd Street, Parlier, California 93648.
We would like to thank everyone for the outpour of support and the love shown during this difficult and challenging time.
