Dr. Mark T. Sylvestre

PLYMOUTH ; Dr. Mark T. Sylvestre passed away on April 11,2008, from complications related to Alzheimer's disease.

He was born on June 24, 1922, the son of Peter V. and Gladys Sylvestre. Mark attended Plymouth schools and graduated from Plymouth High School in 1940.

After graduating from high school, Mark served his country in the Navy during World War II where he was a pharmacist mate. After leaving the service, he attended Plymouth State Teachers College where he received a bachelor's degree in 1950 and a master's degree in 1957. Mark was hired as a science and mathematics teacher at the Richards School in Newport, and served in that capacity from 1950 to 1952 and later became principal of the school where he served from 1952 to 1957.

Mark became a member of the Plymouth State College faculty in 1957 where he was a member of the science department for 31 years. He was selected to attend the Harvard University Academic Year Institute in 1960 where he studied science and math. He later received his Doctor of Education degree from Boston University in 1970. During his career at Plymouth State, he was elected to the Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society and received the Distinguished Teachers Award in 1987, one of the college's highest honors. After his retirement, the planetarium at Boyd Hall was dedicated in his name in 1995. Mark was instrumental in starting the planetarium at Plymouth State and was actively involved in promoting astronomy in New Hampshire.

Mark was also an avid fly fisherman and enjoyed bicycling.

Mark is survived by his wife of 62 years, Katherine; a son Peter, and his wife, Bonnie, of Lyman Maine; a daughter, Karen Natale and her husband Tom of Alton; three grandchildren, Mark J. Sylvestre, Kelcie Natale, and Laura Beatham and her husband Adam' and two great-grandchildren, Noah and Caleb Beatham.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Mayhew Funeral Home, in Plymouth and Meredith, is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made as follows: Mark T. Sylvestre Planetarium, Advancement Office-MSC 50, Plymouth State University, 17 High St., Plymouth NH 03264.