George Robert Mark

CMSgt George Robert Mark, USAF Retired

September 19, 1938 - January 2, 2024 (age 85)

Chief Master Sergeant George Robert Mark, 85, passed away peacefully at his home in Goldendale Washington on January 2, 2024.

George was born on September 19, 1938, in New London, Connecticut. The son of William & Agnes (O'Grady) Mark.

He attended St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School, New London High School and Community College of the Air Force at Scott Air Force Base Illinois. He also completed many other educational courses including military training in multiple states and abroad.

George enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956 and proudly served his country for 30 years and 27 days as an Aircraft Loadmaster. He served 2 tours of duty in the Vietnam War. He retired in 1986 as Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt).

George was stationed at the following Air Force Bases: Portland Air Base Oregon, Clark AFB Philippines, Hill AFB Utah, Kelly AFB Texas, McGuire AFB New Jersey, Scott AFB Illinois and Pope AFB North Carolina.

His honors include: Meritorious Service Medal With Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal With One Silver & Two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal With Three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal, USA Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award With One Silver Oak Leaf Cluster & Two Valor Devices, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, United States Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Combat Readiness Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal With Two Loops, Air Force Good Conduct Medal With One Silver & One Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Antarctica Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal With One Bronze Service Star, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon With One Silver & One Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Vietnam Service Medal With Two Silver Service Stars, USAF Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon With One Oak Leaf Cluster, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Republic Of Vietnam Gallantry Cross With Two Oak Leaf Clusters With Palm & Valor Devices, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After retirement with the Air Force, he started new careers. George retired as Chief of Security with Burns International Security Services. Serving 2 nuclear plants; one in Pennsylvania and one in Connecticut.

He was a care worker at Cedar Crest Society for Community Living in 100 Mile House, BC Canada and volunteered many hours at 100 Mile District Hospice Palliative Care Society and Food Bank Society.

George loved the lord and held many positions in the church. He enjoyed fishing, reading, connecting with family and friends, feeding the deer on his property, traveling across the US, a good steak, talking politics, WWII memorabilia and movies, his gun and bayonet collection, the Chicago Bears and hanging out at the American Legion with friends.

He was very blessed with such a large extended family, and it meant a lot to him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Florence. His children Amanda, David, Dawn, George Jr, Jonathan, John, Mary (aka Beth), Matthew, Michael, Michele and Terri. 29 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Brothers Robert and Greg. Sister Jean. Preceded in death by his late wives, Patricia & Jeannie, parents William & Agnes, brother William and sister Roberta. Also preceded in death by his beloved pet, Peaches, aka Mr. Big. (Cairn Terrier)

A full military honors memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on February 25, 2024, at the American Legion located at 108 N Grant St, Goldendale WA 98620.

Meal following service.

Any financial contributions may be made to the American Legion in memory of George Robert Mark to support our country's veterans. Donate Online (mylegion.org)