Mark M. Bickford

SOUTH CHINA-- Mark Maurice Bickford, 71, of South China, Maine, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025. Born on March 23, 1954, in Waterville, Maine, Mark lived a life full of warmth, humor, and devotion to his family. A loving husband, proud father and grandfather, and cherished friend, Mark will be remembered for his quick wit, his kind spirit, and the countless stories he shared that brought laughter to everyone who knew him.

In July of 1975, Mark married the love of his life, Dot Bickford. Their partnership was one built on mutual respect, laughter, and devotion to family. Together they shared five decades of memories, raising their children and later delighting in the company of their grandchildren. Mark's family was the center of his world, and nothing brought him greater pride or purpose than watching his children grow into the wonderful people they became.

Mark spent his career in construction and was a jack of all trades. He loved the simple pleasures of life: reading a good book, tackling daily crossword puzzles, cooking hearty meals for his family, and watching the birds outside his window. He cherished time spent "at camp," where his faithful dogs were never far from his side, waiting for the last bite of his sandwich.

Mark is preceded in death by his father and mother Maurice and Wilma Bickford, sibling Billy Jo Bonefant, daughter Diana Bickford, and grandson Calib Dube, whose memories he carried close to his heart.

Mark's family will remember him as a steady source of guidance, wit, and unconditional love. Mark is survived by his wife Dot; daughter Tara Hembree and spouse Shawn, daughter Amy Corliss and spouse Jason, and daughter Alexee Littlefield. Mark is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Maureen Brochu, Lynne Reed, and Brent Bonefant, his grandchildren, Carson Hembree, Theron and Jackson Corliss, Mark, Joe, Reed, and Annebell Pilsbury and his many nieces and nephews.

Mark's life was one well-lived and deeply loved. His memory will remain in the hearts of those who knew him, a lasting reminder of gratitude, laughter, and the simple joys that make life meaningful.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 at 1:00pm at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. There will be a gathering for family and friends at the China Legion Hall immediately following the service, 79 Legion Memorial Dr, South China ME 04358.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fred's House, 647 Maine Ave., Farmingdale, ME 04344.