Mark Woitach

Mark Michael Woitach, 67, of Vestal, NY passed away on January 14, 2023. He is predeceased by his mother, Norma, his father, Peter, and his brother, David Woitach. He is survived by his daughter Meredith (Travis) Martin, his two sons Nicholas (Alyssa) and Timothy Woitach, and the mother of his children, Mary Woitach. He is also survived by his grandchildren Freya and Magnus Martin and William Woitach. His family will remember him for his endearing nature and sense of humor.
Mark graduated from Susquehanna Valley High School and SUNY Oneonta with a degree in Education. He brought his passion for history to his 30-year career teaching Middle School Social Studies in Delhi, Glens Falls, Auburn, Susquehanna Valley, and primarily in the Johnson City School District, where he would remain until his retirement in 2010. With an innate ability to connect with his students and make even the most tedious topics entertaining, kids couldn't wait to attend "Mr. W's" class.
Anyone who knew him knew that Mark's true passion was coaching basketball. His basketball journey began as a kid, playing pick-up ball in Susquehanna Valley. Although his childhood dreams of making it into the ABA were never realized, it was not long before he discovered his true talent lie in developing, challenging, and inspiring youth in the game he loved. Mark began a prolific career as a basketball coach, beginning as the interim coach for the SUNY Oneonta Men's team. He went on to lead the men's programs at Auburn, Glens Falls, SUNY Delhi, Susquehanna Valley, Chenango Forks, and Johnson City, where his career came to a close. Throughout his tenure, Mark led multiple teams to the highest level of success in STAC and Section IV. He also coached the Central Region team to multiple medals in the Empire State Games.
Mark's time and energy was never limited to his high school teams. He volunteered his time and energy to help strengthen the communities where he coached, whether through his time coaching various AAU programs or promoting the annual Stop DWI tournament, of which he later became the namesake. These contributions culminated in his induction into the Section IV Hall of Fame in 2014.
He left a lasting impact on his players, providing support and mentorship both on and off the court. Nothing made him prouder than following the successful pursuits of his former players and students, always willing to offer advice, or an ear, to any that needed it.
After retirement, Mark could be found on the golf course or having a cold beer with friends. Throughout his life, Mark faced many challenges, taking each head on, with a smile on his face, love in his heart, and a joke at the ready.
The family will receive friends at Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango Street, Port Dickinson, NY 13901, on Saturday, January 21st, from 1-3 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Johnson City Athletes 2 Athletes Charity Program.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.WmRChase.com for the Woitach family.