Shining Lights of Everyday People

“Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love”—Mother Teresa

By Joanie Allbee

Mark DiGregorio lives life to the fullest, but never too full to bend to help others.

Mark lived a full life as owner of multiple successful businesses and a couple of college degrees. He has a keen sense of business and offers this advice: “In life, don’t be too indecisive about a decision you have to make.”

“Sit back, re-evaluate the situation and then come to a conclusion,” he said.

Mark took care of his father till he passed away with complications of Parkinson’s disease. His father, a Navy veteran, was his best friend.

Mark enjoys listening to a variety of music and often sits behind the key boards (self-taught). A few of his hobbies are golfing and being a car enthusiast. “I’m retired now and still living life to the fullest,” he said.

Mark has volunteered for 23 years of Motorcycle charity runs. His favorite cause is Toys for Tots.

Mark and Diane Bogdan McConnell are part of a quartet who volunteer to run bingo every Wednesday at the Saugus Senior Center. For eight years and counting, he counts and distributes the monies to the winners. He often takes the place of a bingo player if they need a quick break, and he brings water to those who are parched during a game.

DiGregorio jokes that “every day above ground is a good one so stay healthy.”

In his humble way Mark continues to go about brightening others’ days.