It is with deep sorrow that I share with you the news of the passing of another member of the TSA family. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) TSO Mark Barisonek passed away on Tuesday, his birthday, due to complications from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Mark first joined TSA as an Officer at EWR in May 2004. In 2010, he transferred to Denver International Airport where he served in the same position before returning to the Newark team in 2013. Mark was one of Newark’s veteran Officers in the checked baggage screening operation, always coming to duty with a positive attitude and willing to help out and support the mission. Mark was truly a kind person and was willing to do anything for his peers. He was a dedicated professional and a well-liked teammate.
Mark is survived by his wife, five children and three grandchildren. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, friends and his TSA colleagues at Newark.
Information about Mark’s life will be added to the TSA In Memoriam page, which is dedicated to the memory of those we have tragically lost to COVID-19.
Mark is the second member of Team Newark to pass away as a result of COVID-19. Francis “Frank” Boccabella III, an Explosive Detection Canine Handler at EWR, passed away on April 2.
As a reminder, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free and confidential service available to TSA employees who feel they may benefit from the guidance and support of a licensed counselor during this difficult time. The EAP is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be reached at 1-800-222-0364 (TTY 1-888-262-7848) or online at FOH4you.com. You can find more information on Human Capital’s TSA Workforce Programs website.
I hope you will join me in remembering Mark and recognizing his service to our country and to the American people.
David Pekoske
