Marion Novella LaMark's Obituary
Marion Novella La Mark was born in Detroit Michigan on August 22nd, 1929, to the union of Georgemma Jordan Blackman and Herbert Blackman Sr. She grew up in Nashville, Tennessee with her brother Herbert Blackman Jr. who she loved dearly. Marion attended college at Tennessee state University where she pledged Delta Sigma Theta, and eventually gained Diamond Status. Graduating with the class of 1952, she received a bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
Shortly after graduation, Marion moved to Colorado, where she met the love of her life and future husband Alex Anthony La Mark (who she called Elec). Together, they raised three beautiful children. Marion was shy and reserved, yet constantly astonished others with her quick wit and sense of humor.
Marion attained high status within her occupation working for the Federal Government and mid-career Marion also co-founded one of the first black owned trucking companies in the Bay Area with her husband, La Mark Transportation, Inc. This family-owned business created countless opportunities for people of color during a time of affirmative action.
Along being a mother of three, Marion enjoyed competitive bowling, throwing barbecues, playing cards and dominoes, scrabble, and the occasional run to the casino with her daughter Roberta. As a major sports fanatic, Marion loved watching games and talking smack with her sons Paul and Lynn. She was a diehard fan of the San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants, and Golden State Warriors. Marion could watch sports all day, as well as General hospital, Law and Order, and MSNBC.
As the matriarch of the family, she enjoyed celebrations that brought together her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. When the music came on, Marion got up and boogied, and was always the first in line for some good food, with a diet coke in tow. Marion celebrated life with family and friends, and we will always remember her tender voice, contagious laugh, and loving heart.
Leaving to mourn, her children - Lynn and his wife Dina, Roberta and her husband David, and her eldest son Paul.
Grandchildren - Elizabeth and her husband Wilbert, Jenea and her husband Andrew, Kennedy, Kayla, Chiara, and Siena
Great-grandchildren - Paris Jr., Alexis, Cicily, and Sage
Great-Great-grandchildren - Luca
Her beloved nieces and nephews - Rene and Nicola, Charles and David
And a host of family and friends
Preceded in death - her husband Alex, Mother Georgeemma, Father Herbert Sr., brother Herbert Jr., and best friend Alflorence (Suzie).
What’s your fondest memory of Marion?
What’s a lesson you learned from Marion?
Share a story where Marion's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Marion you’ll never forget.
How did Marion make you smile?

