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MARC DETTLING Obituary

Marc Allen Dettling Marc was a loving father, caring brother, and adoring husband. He was full of humor and grace and was always open to new ideas and different lifestyles. Born in Tacoma on November 28, 1959 to Robert and Elli Dettling, Marc went on to graduate from Wilson High School and attend Western Washington University. He served as pastor in the area for over 15 years, and even after retiring from the ministry, Marc continued to serve others. Every day Marc went out of his way to make those around him feel accepted and loved. Throughout his life Marc was an avid pianist, with a special passion for the blues. He loved to share his music with others and frequently performed in Tacoma and Seattle, both as a soloist and in groups. On January 13, 2014 Marc was called home to Jesus. He is survived by his wife Patti Dettling, and their seven children, Brandt Dettling, Hannah Dettling, Reuben Dettling, Chariti Saunders, Nicole Smith, Macaiah Smith, and Heidi Smith. A celebration of his life will be held at 2pm Saturday, February 1, 2014, at the Port Orchard Church of The Nazarene.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Jan. 28, 2014.

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Rock & Grace Ruddy

February 2, 2014

We haven't seen Marc in years, but he was one of our closest friends during our early marriage. In fact, he stood with us at our wedding. He was always warm, encouraging, and real. We had times of side-splitting belly laughs and times of sharing grief and tears. We are thankful for having known hs friendship. We pray peace and comfort for his family.

Nancy Wussow

February 2, 2014

Marc had a Christ-like way of noticing, and bringing out, the best in people. When I first started attending PSCC, I was a divorced mom with 4 small children. Marc was the first person to reach out to me. He would talk with me after the service and make sure I felt loved and included. He helped me connect with people and activities at the church. He introduced me to Rocky and Grace Ruddy, and encouraged me to join the Caraway Street children's ministry. I will never forget his smile and his kindness.

Larry Wussow

February 2, 2014

Nancy and I first met Marc at PSCC in 1990 when we were still both single. In our 40 years of following Jesus, Marc was one of the best pastor's we ever heard. He portrayed the love of Jesus and always made us want to be more like him. We remember being personally impacted by his sermons. We just loved the fact that when he was done speaking about whatever topic his sermon was on he would say… “you know what? we just need Jesus.” That always hit us to the core. The fact that to be more like Jesus was the answer to everything. We've carried that thought through our marriage all these years. While we're sad that this earth will no longer have him to show Jesus's love, we so thankful we'll get to see him again. What a great hope we have as followers of Jesus!

Teresa LeMay-Nickel

January 28, 2014

I have known Marc since high school... he was a genuine, loving Christian brother who was always kind and caring. My condolences to Marc's family and friends in this time of loss.

Linda Lauritzen

January 28, 2014

Marc was/is a good friend and loving brother in Christ. No one has a greater gift than he for making a person feel loved and valuable. I look forward to seeing him again!

Bill Durham

January 28, 2014

Dettling Family-My deepest condolences to you. Marcus was a huge part of my younger years. We were buddy's throughout our years at Washington, Mason, and Wilson. I have many fond memories of those times. Marcus always had a huge heart, a great sense of humor, and an infectious laugh. My he rest in peace. I'll look forward to seeing him again.

January 28, 2014

I met Marc while attending PSCC. He was an Associate Pastor. I always enjoyed his sermons because he spoke from the heart and with such candor. You knew he loved people and the Lord!

Rick Dupea

January 28, 2014

Marc was the best preacher I ever heard (no offense to many other friends who are great also, but Marc always got right at my heart.) There are still many firm foundational beliefs I live by that I got from him, tested, and found good. He impacted thousands of lives.

Tony and Cathy Bittner

January 28, 2014

We first met Marc when he and Joe were covering the pastoral duties at PSCC while Tom was on sabbatical. Marc's heart was always tender toward those in need (everyone at some time) and he demonstrated a Christ-like love. Way too young; he will be missed.

Anita

January 28, 2014

Patti and family, although I did not know Marc personally, I knew him through Patti, may he rest in peace and may you all rest in God's love. My deepest condolences to all of you. Love you Patti!

Scott Urling

January 28, 2014

I got to know Marc when he was in high school and part of the youth group at Peoples Church. He was part of a small group of guys I met with and mentored. I remember him as a very likeable kid with a quick smile and infectious laugh. I took the guys hiking and backpacking several times and still have a photo of Marc sitting by the camp stove with a lake and the North Cascades in the background. I was saddened to read of his passing at such a young age. I would appreciate hearing more about what happened. My condolences to all his family and friends.

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