Mark Stanley

Mark Dennis Stanley, age 72 of Ames, IA, peacefully passed away on April 18, 2025, at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. His family will host a private gathering to celebrate his life at a later time.
Mark was born to Samuel Jr. and Ruth (Smith) Stanley on April 19, 1952, in Roanoke, VA. Mark was the proud son of a preacher, and the family moved around Virginia because of Samuel's work. Mark graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1970 and continued his education at Ferrum College. Shortly after beginning school, he was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War. He drew on his upbringing and served as a chaplain's assistant.
Mark was an outdoor enthusiast. He took great pleasure in backpacking, camping, hiking, skiing, archery, and bicycling. Mark could be competitive-he enjoyed competitive canoeing and was a proud 2x Randy Carter Memorial Champion canoeist on the Shenandoah River in Virginia.
Mark carried his love of the outdoors into his work. After leaving the service, he co-owned Shenandoah River Canoe Outfitters and devoted many years to the company. He then went on to a career as a logistics supervisor for outdoor clothing and equipment businesses.
Mark's love of the outdoors and work in the field also brought Mark to his wife, Susan (Gore), who he met through work in Colorado. They were married on June 27, 1992. In 1996, they settled in Broomfield, CO, and raised their family. They recently moved to Ames after 28 years in the same home.
Mark was strong in his faith. He adored spending time with his family, and they always felt his love and dedication. His grandchildren loved his hugs and always giggled at "Papa's funny noises."
Left to cherish memories of Mark are his wife, Susan; three children Russell (Emma) Smith, Emily (Paul) Danner, and Robert (Alyssa) Stanley; grandchildren Lexi, Lizzy, and Quinn; as well as many extended family members. Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel A. Stanley Jr., and Ruth O. Stanley (Smith); older brother, Samuel A. Stanley III ("Little Sam"); mother-in-law, Sarah (Daily) Gore; and sister-in-law Lorie (Gore) Lammers.
In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, IA, where Mark received exceptional care.