Mark Joseph Richardson

I am late and deeply saddened to learn this news. Mark was not my friend for long, I had known him for only about a year in Saipan, he was such a gentle soul. I have followed your/his story since 2005, always overjoyed at every post telling where in the world he was, and his persistance to live the life he loved. And the icing on the cake was so often seeing his family with him. Love. I have and will continue to miss him. Tracy Nance

My most since condolences to Betty, Stephanie, and James.

What an amazing journey Mark had - defying a prognosis and really celebrating and living life.

Mark (and you) have had a profound impact on the lives of many people through his courage, your support, and your blog. What a gift and a legacy to have created.

Mark had such a fun sense of humor. I collect postcards, and he once addressed an airplane barf bag to me, stamped and mailed it with a message about wishing I were there... and it made it throgh the mail!

Please know I am thinking of you and your family. I found Mark's courage, fortitude, and zest for life to be inspiring and affirming. Please shower yourselves, your family and extended family, with with blessings and wishes for full hearts and happy memories from me.

On Saipan Mark used to really enjoy all the blooming trees. They are called Flame Trees and they have the most vivid red blooms. He used to tell me that when those trees were in bloom, it was like a florist shop had exploded all over the place.

Will remember all the good times we spent together on Dawn Drive and in Jacksonville. Mark was a very good looking young man.

Betty and Steph so very sorry to hear about Mark. He was a long time survivor and fighter. I always remember when we came to your big Jacksonville farm and Mark took me for a ride on your horse. Best time ever! RIP Mark

I was lucky enough to meet Stephanie through work, and by extension, Betty. I didn't meet Mark, but followed his story. Life is never easy or predictable, but you all meet it with such grace, wisdom, gusto, and humor. It is the best that any of us can hope to do, and you did an exemplary job with the time you had with Mark.

Mark fought a long battle, and was fortunate to have a mother, sister, and stepdad to help him through those times. I am so sorry for your loss. He is on a new adventure now.