Mark J. Kilker

Mark J. Kilker, 72, of Saylorsburg, PA, died at home on 15 February 2025. He was the son of John J. and Elizabeth A. Kilker of Dunmore, PA. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen M. Kilker, and daughters Meghan (Juan) Mendez, Bridget (Michael) Rybacki, and son Mark (Abigail) Kilker. He was preceded in death by his daughter Colleen in 2002.
Mark graduated from Dunmore High School, and earned his B.S.N. Degree in Nursing from Trenton State College. He later received his M.S.N. from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctorate of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University.
While earning his advanced degrees, Mark worked as a Registered Nurse at Pocono Hospital in East Stroudsburg, PA. In 1981 he joined the faculty at East Stroudsburg University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nursing. Over the next 30 years, in addition to teaching, Mark served as the Chairperson of the Nursing Department and eventually as the Dean of the School of Health Sciences at ESU.
To those of us who knew and loved him, Mark lived his life in hopeful pursuit. He exemplified character and patience. He taught himself beekeeping, carpentry, and ran marathons. His curiosity and optimism were integral to his deep relationships with others and the world. Mark was the architect of many elaborate family adventures. It was in his nature to be always thoughtful and generous - quietly and humbly giving. Mark brought out the best in each of us. He was weighed in the balance and found worthy.
In addition to his immediate family, Mark is remembered by his sisters Mary McHale, Eileen Giovagnoli, and Elizabeth Kennedy, and brother Thomas Kilker. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers John A. Kilker and Kevin M. Kilker. Mark loved his grandchildren Luke, Julia, Jacob, Avery, and Nathan, and treasured their time together.
A memorial will be held at William H. Clark Funeral Home in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday 21 February 2025 from 11AM-1PM. Remembrances by Mark's family will be read at 12:30PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Colleen Kilker Memorial Fund, University of Illinois Foundation, 303 St. Mary's Road, Champaign, Illinois 61820.