News Summary
Mark DeMichele, former CEO of Arizona Public Service Co. (APS), passed away at 91. A dedicated leader in the energy sector and community activist, he left a significant impact through his service and philanthropy. DeMichele’s career spanned various sectors, and he was known for his efforts in healthcare, education, and historical preservation. His legacy includes awards and initiatives that greatly benefited the community.
Coronado, CA – Mark DeMichele, a prominent figure in the energy sector and former CEO of Arizona Public Service Co. (APS), passed away on September 10, 2025, at the age of 91. His death marks the end of a significant life dedicated to both corporate leadership and community service.
Born on March 23, 1934, in Syracuse, NY, DeMichele grew up in a humble family. His father, Aldo Nino DeMichele, was an undocumented Italian immigrant, while his mother, Dora Carno DeMichele, worked as a cafeteria employee. From an early age, Mark demonstrated ambition and resourcefulness, funding his own pursuits. He worked in various jobs, including during summers at the Stickley Furniture factory where his father held a foreman’s position. DeMichele developed cooking skills as he sold pots and pans at in-home parties while attending Syracuse University, where he graduated debt-free, a principle he maintained throughout his life.
DeMichele’s professional journey began in the fields of advertising and public relations, leading him to serve as vice president at Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. in Syracuse. His pivotal career shift occurred in 1977 after a chance meeting with the CEO of APS, which led to an offer to join the company. DeMichele accepted the role a few months later, initiating a new chapter in his career. Notably, he met his future wife, Barbara Stanley, on his first day at APS; they married four years later.
Mark DeMichele held the position of CEO of Arizona Public Service Co. for 11 years before retiring in 1997. Under his leadership, APS was awarded The Edison Award, a prestigious recognition celebrating contributions to the utility industry. DeMichele also occupied board positions in several publicly-traded companies, including America West Airlines, Pinnacle West Capital Corp., and Ontario Power Generation of Canada.
After retirement, he relocated to Coronado, CA, where he actively engaged in community initiatives. In 2000, he and Barbara chaired a capital campaign for the Coronado Historical Association, raising over $2 million for building restorations. In 2010, he led efforts for Christ Church Coronado to improve security and infrastructure. Throughout his life, DeMichele demonstrated a passion for healthcare, serving on the board of St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Arizona and working with Catholic Healthcare West (now Dignity Health) in San Francisco. He played a role in a pivotal 2021 merger that established CommonSpirit Health, the largest non-profit Catholic healthcare system in the United States.
DeMichele and his wife balanced their time between Coronado and Arizona, returning to Phoenix in 2015 to be closer to family. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Barbara, their daughter Gia DeMichele (married to Brandon Borsheim), his sons Mark A. DeMichele and Christopher DeMichele, and daughters Michele Mathna (married to Ed) and Julianne Dirk (married to Barry), along with six grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Frank, and first wife Faye.
Funeral services for Mark DeMichele will be held on October 3, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Christ Church Coronado, located at 1114 9th Street. Following the service, a reception will take place. A Celebration of Life is also scheduled in Phoenix on November 8, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Episcopal Church Coronado or St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation in Phoenix.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado News: Mark DeMichele Obituary
- Wikipedia: Arizona Public Service Company
- AZ Central: Mark DeMichele Obituary
- Google Search: Mark DeMichele
- Dignity Memorial: Onofrio DeMichele
- Encyclopedia Britannica: CEO
- Dignity Memorial: Glenn Stanley
- Google News: Mark DeMichele
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
