Mark D. Bland

Mark was a terrific man. I went to high school with Mark at the original F.W. Cox. Our families lived on the same street, Applewood Lane, caught the bus together and had great times just hanging around the neighborhood. My heart is filled with wonderful memories of Mark. He is greatly missed. I continue to pray for all Mark's family.

My condolences to the Bland family! I met Mark when I was a young girl. He worked for my father, Joe Phelps driving a school bus. He was one of those people I will never forget, always smiling and kind. I have many fond memories, leaning German, playing pinball, homework help and the list goes on. When my father passed unexpectedly, Mark was there to console me. I wish I could have been there today to celebrate home, he was a blessed soul.

Another great BLAND who added his wonderful energy and legacy to this world, enhancing a generation that will always remember what he gave them.

So very sad for your loss. We (my mom, Mrs. Roper, me, Susan and my brother Charles) grew up as a neighbor of Mark and his family. We lived several houses down from Mark and his family on Applewood Lane in Virginia Beach and attended Cox High School. Mark was always so kind, helpful and full of life during our school years. He will be greatly missed and as Mark commented, "absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." Much love to all Mark's family, Susan Roper Stark

I´m so sorry to read of Mark´s passing. He always seemed to me to be a Renaissance man, enjoying chess and trapping as he did. He dealt with his ailments for so many years; I´m glad he gets a new and perfect body now he´ll be with God. God bless him.

Working with Mark at Bayside High School was easy. He was a friendly guy, professional with students and parents and held reasonable standards in his classroom. Condolences to the family.

I graduated from Cox High School with Marks brother Jay. Everyone in the Bland family were so nice and friendly. May Mark rest in peace.

Mark was a long time friend. He was a great chess and poker player. He was responsible for me joining the Writers Group. i loved to see and hear him laugh. I will miss him.