He served over 12 years in the United States Marine Corps and was a veteran of Desert Storm. He served as a Field Radio Operator and a Parachutist. During his career, he was awarded: Southwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze stars; Kuwait Liberation Medal (SA); Kuwait Liberation Medal (K); Combat Action Ribbon; National Defense Service Medal; Sea Service Deployment Ribbon/Third award; Navy Achievement Medal; Meritorious Unit Commendation/Second award; Navy Unit Commendation; Certificate of Appreciation; Meritorious Mast; Letter of Good Conduct Medal/Third award; and Letter of Appreciation. Following his separation from the Marine Corps, Mark and his wife, Keri Richey, daughter, Rachel, and son, Ethen all settled in the Truckee Meadows area and went to work for Nevada Generator Company. He had a true a passion for raising and showing Arabians as well a true love for his dog, Max, Asia, and Cheyenne. He was active in the horse community and met his very good friends Dawn and James Beatty. He also had great relationships with Lisa Mcmillin and Eris Cabe.
He also left behind four grand children..... Reagan, Kherington, Wyatt and Layne.
All who knew him loved him and miss him deeply.