Rotary Club, La Valette Malta, writes:

It is always hard to comprehend that someone who was a part of our life will no longer be physically there. However, one thing that lingers on in our minds and hearts is the spirit of that person.

The sad news that our fellow friend and Rotarian Mark Gialanze passed away at the young age of 40 came as a shock, and our first thoughts went to his wife Roberta and the children Isaac and Timmy.

When Mark was invited to become a Rotarian and join Rotary Club La Valette Malta, his reaction was instantly positive, suggesting that he wanted to be of service in an altruistic way. He wanted to contribute to those less fortunate than him.

Mark immediately set about working within our club and contributing to its aims. He always volunteered to help, even when he did not feel up to it. He was always very active right up to the end, an end no one deserves at such a young age.

Professionally, he was totally committed to his work and never shied away from a challenge. Mark was never one to cut corners or compromise on quality. His advice was genuine and practical. His commitment to the task at hand was total.

For those of us fortunate to have been touched by Mark we will always remember him as a kind, generous, gentle and pleasant gentleman who immediately made us at ease with his warm smile.

In Mark we saw a humble person, always willing to help others and never turning his back on a chance to contribute. He was very approachable and had a gentle demeanour that was accompanied by his unique smile and laugh even when faced with a crisis. His can-do attitude and warmth will be missed.

We have all lost a true friend and our club has lost a hard worker. Our heart goes out to Roberta, Isaac and Timmy. Cherish the thought that Mark made a difference in all of our lives.

Goodbye our friend.