Saying “Goodbye” To Mark Thorpe

Mark Thorpe, the man with the shiny transfer and the 1,000 watt voice, passed away from injuries sustained in a car accident on December 15, 2014. Throughout his 58 years, Mark made several close friends and entertained everyone with his clever wit and comical sense of humor. He was well-known and loved by many in California’s Bay Area trucking community, as well as in Northern Nevada. Although he was characteristically rough around the edges, Mark had a huge heart, and would do anything to help someone in need. He was especially proud of his wife, Tena. The two of them were married for 22 years, and his love for her was evident. Those that knew Mark in the 80’s would remember him driving his first brand new truck – a 1985 Peterbilt 359 transfer owned by Grimsley Trucking. In the late 90’s, Mark drove a beautiful blue long hood Peterbilt 379 owned by G & L Supply in Morgan Hill, California. After that, he ran another nice 379 owned by Santa Clara Transfer. Mark went on to drive for Tri County Transport in Gilroy, California, and then in 2009 he moved to Yerington, Nevada and started working for Cinderlite Trucking. In his glory days, Mark could often be found taking pictures of his truck. After wiping them down with the signature floor mop and lemon Pledge he used to clean the boxes, he would then apply a coat of Armor All on the tires and start shooting. Pride in appearance was always very important to him – he was a professional, and acted as such. People like Mark are somewhat of a rarity these days. What can we do to honor him and his life? We can take pride in our everyday work, treat people how we would like to be treated, and always look for the good in everyone. Love and cherish your family, while you can, and be thankful for your health. Mark Thorpe will be missed by all who knew him. Keep on truckin’ buddy!

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