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BORN
1957
DIED
2021
Mark Kirkland Obituary
Mark James Kirkland
January 25, 1957 - July 13, 2021
Mark James Kirkland passed away July 13, 2021. Born and raised in Longview, Washington, Mark took pride in his community and was actively involved. He graduated from RA Long High School in 1975, and from Western Washington University. Many people would remember him as the little redhead skating around the Rollaway Skating Rink owned by his parents, Jim and Geneva Kirkland, or selling Christmas trees at the Kirkland Tree Farms.
Mark spent the majority of his life in the forestry industry. He was passionate about maintaining healthy forests and educating others. For over 20 years he was a member of the Cowlitz Farm Forestry and took an active role in the annual seedling tree sale. Kirkland Tree Farms has been a certified family forest since 1961.
Outdoor adventure was his calling. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, backpacking, biking and rock climbing were his favorites. He spent many years as a white water rafting guide with Orion River Rafting. His most memorable tour was guiding a 28 day trip through the Grand Canyon. For the past 15 years he enjoyed jeeping in the Southwest near his home in La Quinta, California. He met many fellow jeepers who he eagerly guided through the rugged desert.
Mark and Sue enjoyed traveling together and were fortunate to see the world. Spending time in Italy with friends was one of the highlights. Mark and Sue took pride in working on their homes and gardens together.
He never met a stranger. His outgoing personality and wealth of knowledge touched many lives. Mark was a jack of all trades. He was always willing to help family and strangers, not only would he help, but he'd be sure to teach you the "right" way to do it. From patching a boat to falling a tree, Mark was your guy.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Kirkland, and mother Geneva Kirkland.
Mark is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sue Kirkland and three step-daughters Renee Wallace and son-in-law Wayne Wallace, Gretchen Bratton and son-in-law Tian Bratton, Laura Lund and son-in-law Kasey Lund and grandchildren Kirk Downer, Madison Farnsworth, Macey Farnsworth, Jacob Farnsworth, Samantha Bratton, Cameron Lund, and Chase Lund.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cowlitz Farm Forestry Association which gives out scholarships to local students. PO Box 1297 Castle Rock, Wa. or Community Home Health and Hospice, PO Box 2067, Longview, Wa.
A service will be held at Green Hills Memorial Garden 1939 Mt Brynion Road, Kelso, Wa. at 11:00am Saturday, July 24th.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Kirkland
Jeff Wallace
July 12, 2023
I will always remember our time as classmates at St. Rose as well as are friendship all through high school and college. I miss you my friend.
Ed and Marlon Krampert
July 24, 2021
We are very sorry to hear of the loss of Mark. We met Mark 10 years ago jeeping in so. California. We learned so much from Mark as he knew so much and shared his knowledge with us. Our deepest and sincerest condolences to Sue and the family. Rest in Peace Mark.
Rodger Garrett
July 23, 2021
Linda and I offer our deepest sympathy to Sue and family. Mark was a special person who we will miss very much.
James Searing
July 22, 2021
To my best friend at St. Rose Catholic School, Monticello Jr. High, and R.A. Long High School, I am going to miss you my friend, but I will alway's remember the many good times and laughs we have had over the many years, especially in our younger years. My condolences and sympathy to your family in this time of grieving over your loss, but I know that God will be there to support comfort them. GOD BLESS
Fred Majewski
July 20, 2021
We met Mark about 4 years ago and I fondly remember Marks outgoing and generous personality.
I have one regret not having met Mark much earlier. I will miss him and offer my deepest condolences to his wife, Sue and his family
Jeff Wallace
July 19, 2021
I have fond memories of you my friend, from kindergarten through college and beyond. My deepest sympathies to your wife and family. You will be greatly missed. I will remember you always my friend.
Callie Martinez
July 19, 2021
I am so sad to hear of Mark's passing. He was such a wonderful guy. My condolences to the family. Mark will truly be missed!
Bonnie Workman
July 18, 2021
To my cousins, so sorry to hear of your loss. Beulah had told me that Mark was ill during my recent visit with her in May. I am praying for all of you. I do remember meeting Mark during one of my visits with Ken & Beulah and I have enjoyed seeing posts on FB from your travels.
Laura Lund
July 18, 2021
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cowlitz Farm Forestry Association which gives out scholarships to local students. PO Box 1297 Castle Rock, Wa. or Community Home Health and Hospice, PO Box 2067, Longview, Wa.
A service will be held at Green Hills Memorial Garden 1939 Mt Brynion Road, Kelso, Wa. at 11:00am Saturday, July 24th.
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