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Mark Stuart Durling

Obituary

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Mark Durling Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 14, 2025.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mark S. Durling on July 27, 2025, at the age of 75. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to all who crossed his path. Mark was born July 8, 1950 in New Milford, Connecticut to the late Roy S. and Louise H. (Freyer) Durling. Mark spent his childhood on the shores of Lake Waramaug, where he developed his lifelong love for the outdoors and honed his skills as a sportsman.

After graduating from Wamogo Regional High School in 1969, Mark moved with his family to Fort Myers, Florida. He then entered the U.S. Navy in September 1969, and spent four years as a Gunner's Mate on the USS Suffolk County (LST-1173), and later on the USS Coronado (LPD-11) until he was honorably discharged in 1973.

During his Naval service, a shipmate introduced Mark to Nancy Anne Read of Elizabeth, New Jersey in April 1972. Mark and Nancy were married at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Elizabeth on September 22, 1973, and shortly thereafter moved to Fort Myers, Florida in order to reunite with his family. Mark continued his life of service by joining the Lee County Sheriff's Office on October 21, 1974. He retired from the Sheriff's Office as Law Enforcement Bureau Chief on December 31, 2004. After retirement, Mark pursued his passions: travel, hunting, fishing and woodworking.

Surviving Mark are his wife of 51 years, Nancy A. Durling; children Adam S. Durling and Erin M. (Robert) Casale; his beloved grandchildren: Taylor Casale, Cameron Casale, Nathan Casale and Jetson Durling; siblings: Suzanne Cook, Richard Durling, Keith Durling and Elizabeth Durling; many nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and nephews; as well as many friends and extended family.

The family will receive visitors at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Boulevard from 3:00 - 5:00 PM on Saturday, August 30, 2025. Memorial donations may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Jilly

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I am so glad I got to spend time with Mark on my visit to Florida. I had so much fun with him. I will remember happily him sitting and joking with me. He made me feel like a million bucks! Prayers, love, and sympathy to Nancy, Erin, and Adam. Mark will be missed.