D. Mark Conlee

1953 - 2024

Conlee, D. Mark

July 4, 1953 - March 18, 2024

Mark passed away peacefully Monday, March 18, 2024. A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 4:00 pm at Bryan City Cemetery.  A Celebration Party will follow at The Veranda from 5:00-7:00 pm.

Donald Mark Conlee was born July 4, 1953 to Donald and Kathryn (Mathis) Conlee in Bryan, Texas. Mark graduated in 1971 as a member of the last graduating class from Stephen F. Austin High School in Bryan.  He then went on Sam Houston State University where he graduated in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in finance.

Mark married Cathy Nevill in May 1975 and made their home in Houston for one year before moving back to Bryan to open 3C Barbeque in Culpepper Plaza. In 1983, Mark and Cathy opened Cathy's Corner convenience store and in 1985 opened the Red Bandana restaurant. Planning ahead for his retirement, Mark started investing in real estate for rental property income.

Mark was elected to the Bryan City Council in 2004 to fill an unexpired term. He served  3 years as council member until being elected Mayor in 2007. Some of the major accomplishments under his 3-year mayoral tenure include: Joint Community Emergency Operations Center, Twin Oaks Landfill project, City of Bryan was designated as a Preserve America Community. Bryan Fire Station Number Five, City of Bryan-Brazos County Economic Development Foundation creation, library renaming to Clara B. Mounce Public Library.  The accomplishment he was most proud of was the location of the TAMU System Health Science Center in Bryan.

Mark was involved with the Methodist church, local and state restaurant association boards, Alpha, and the inaugural class of the police academy.

He is preceded in death by his son Don Conlee, parents Donald & Kathryn Conlee, father-in-law & mother-in-law Ray Sr. & Jeanne Criswell.

Mark is survived by his wife of 48 ½ years, Cathy Conlee; daughter Kelli Griffin & husband Bobby; grandsons Rob and Ryan Griffin; sisters, Kay Conlee, Kathy Keefer & husband George. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Melissa Clary & husband Jeff, Carolyn Baur & husband Richard, Marilyn Franer; brothers-in-law, Ray Criswell & wife Maureen, Don Chandler, Mike Chandler.

Memorials preferred to: Bryan Community Church; Enhabit Hospice; or a charity of your choice.