Send this story Print this story

Adjust text size

Mark Severi, Draeger's Menlo Park manager, dies at 53

Customers at Draeger's were saddened recently to hear of the death of Mark Severi, director of the Menlo Park supermarket. Mr. Severi, who had been with Draeger's for 10 years, died April 20 of cancer at the age of 53.

In a letter to employees and customers, signed by members of the Draeger family, they wrote: "Mark loved working at Draeger's. Since joining the company in August, 2000, he worked six days per week until he became sick with cancer. In the last few months, even as his illness took his energy and left him with severe pain, he continued working because he had a store and staff to care for. His positive attitude and selfless service inspired all who knew him."

Many longtime customers felt a personal loss in Mr. Severi's death, including Helen Steinberg of Woodside who said, "He had to be one of the kindest people and caring and hard working that we have ever met ... and he really loved his job."

Mark Severi of Redwood City began his career in the grocery business at QFI 37 years ago. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed a round of golf. Every summer he vacationed with his family and his dogs, Boots and Bailey, at Camp Richardson at Lake Tahoe.

He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Denise; children Jenna and Michael Severi; stepchildren Paul and Stephanie McManus; sister Lori Yock; and brother Scott Severi.

Services were held April 25 at St. Pius Church in Redwood City. Arrangements were under the direction of Crippen & Flynn, Woodside Chapel, Redwood City.

Memorials in Mr. Severi's name may be made to UCSF Foundation, c/o Alan Venook M.D. Research Fund, PO Box 45339, San Francisco, CA 94145-0339.