Mark Shanley, age 63, beloved husband and brother, passed away on May 13, 2021. He is survived by Dawn, his wife of 30 years; parents Margaret and Jack; brothers Dean(Sharon), Paul, and Gary(Kathy); many nieces and nephews, and friends around the world. Mark touched the lives of many people, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Mark grew up in Highlands, New Jersey, and attended Mater Dei High School. He served in the Marine Corps as a Drill Instructor, and following his military service, obtained his college degree from Montana State University. Mark enjoyed a decorated career with the US Customs/Department of Homeland Security, and eventually retired in the bucolic setting of Kalispell, Montana. He loved the serenity of the Rocky Mountains, the glorious sunrises and sunsets viewed from his deck, and mingling with the wildlife strolling through his yard.
In the words of his beloved wife Dawn:
“Mark, you were the best husband and friend I could ever hope for; patient and loving despite the tough marine drill instructor exterior. You gave me the greatest 30 years of my life, filling my life with love and adventure and showing me the world. You were an awesome Doggie Dad to Max, Iris, Memphis, Elvis, and Fossil. Life will be extremely difficult without you. Fossil, Al, and I will sit on the back deck gazing at the Rockies, knowing you will always be with us”.
Arrangements were entrusted to Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Hazlet, New Jersey. In respect of Mark’s wishes, he will be privately cremated. Mark’s life will be celebrated in a private ceremony at his home in Kalispell, Montana, the final resting place of his ashes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Flatheadshelterfriends.com, the local animal shelter where Mark and Dawn adopted their latest furry baby, Fossil. Rest In Peace Mark, we will miss you. Semper Fi.
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