Mark passed away surrounded by his family Monday, October 23, 2017 in Brighton.
He was born May 3, 1953 in Flint the son of Joseph and Dolores (Tahash) Pobocik. Mark proudly served his country in the US Air Force. Rather you knew him during his Vietnam service, his days fishing and motorcycling in Oscoda, hunting with his dogs in Grawn, diving, hiking and camping in Hawaii, kayaking in and around the Great Lakes, teaching students in Midland, deer hunting in Luzerne or traveling and camping all over the earth, Mark was always busy raising 3 sons, growing as a person, spreading Aloha, and living life the way he wanted to live it.
Surviving are his children, Jacob (Andrea) Pobocik, Peter Pobocik and Luke (Jennifer) Pobocik; 6 grandchildren, Sadie, Nickolas, Kaia, Brooke, Nickolas and Olivia; his mother; siblings, Kathy, Becky, Matt, Paul, Chris, Rita and Andy along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father and brother, Victor.
Friends may visit with Mark’s family from 4-7 P.M., Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Sharp Family Funeral Home, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd, Swartz Creek, MI, and from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the funeral service at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, October 26, 2017 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Grand Blanc.
Cremation will follow.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
.
Offer Condolence for the family of Mark J. Pobocik
Condolence Messages
Paul Pobocik
October 23, 2017 at 5:35 pm
A Life well lived! RIP
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Ray Babcock
October 23, 2017 at 6:08 pm
We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Mark’s family.
Ray & Pam Babcock
(friends of Chris & Linda)
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Carolyn Drier
October 23, 2017 at 7:13 pm
I’m thinking of your family at this time.
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Janet Keefer Lagness
October 23, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Prayers and Sincere sympathy to Chris and his extended family
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Terry & Sandy Boyle
October 23, 2017 at 7:35 pm
Chris and family, so sorry for your loss. You have been there for so many families over the years. Praying you receive the same care and compassion.
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Jake Pobocik
October 23, 2017 at 8:21 pm
The best father I could have ever dreamed of, my best friend through my entire life, I miss you so much. Thank you Dad.
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Larry Denis
October 24, 2017 at 1:40 pm
Aloha Jake. My deepest sympathy on the loss of you dad. Words cannot really convey how I felt about your dad. He was truly a remarkable man. The best Mcgiver I have ever known. I will always treasure our friendship and time I spent with him. Please pass my condolences to Peter, Luke and your mom. God Bless you all.
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Leo e Rosane
October 24, 2017 at 10:11 pm
We are so very sorry for your loss.
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
God bless you all.
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Ernie Mendenhall
October 23, 2017 at 8:29 pm
A life to short, a life well lived. Peace brother.
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Michelle Murphy Wood
October 23, 2017 at 8:30 pm
You helped us see the beauty all around us and to live each day to its fullest. We will miss you.
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Terry & Susan Hanley
October 23, 2017 at 8:34 pm
sending our thoughts and prayers
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Sue & Greg Pobocik
October 23, 2017 at 8:46 pm
Prayers for the family-So sorry for your loss.
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Cathy Vergison
October 23, 2017 at 8:53 pm
I knew Mark since I was 6 years old. He was always fun and also a character. I’m sure his family will miss him
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Ben Pobocik
October 23, 2017 at 9:02 pm
Thoughts of you will forever bring fond memories of time spent fishing in Canada and in the woods of Luzerne.
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Jennifer Suarez
October 23, 2017 at 9:13 pm
Namaste dear Mark! You will be missed.
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Barb Hall
October 23, 2017 at 9:18 pm
I feel so blessed to have had Mark for a friend and to have met some of his wonderful family. I will miss you Mark and I’m keeping that cake recipe so that I can make you another one when I see you again.
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Cheryl Stovall
October 23, 2017 at 9:22 pm
He is my example of living life to the fullest. He was a strong man with a big heart. He shared his love of nature with us all. Thanks Mark. Peace to you.
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Bob Ribble
October 23, 2017 at 9:40 pm
Sad to hear of Mark’s passing…..great guy and wonderful teacher who loved working with our Midland students.
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Bill Leahy
October 23, 2017 at 9:47 pm
Mark was a colleague of mine at Jefferson Middle School. He was also a friend that I enjoyed cross county skiing and live music with, not to mention simple, but stimulating conversation. Sorry to see him go, but happy he is no longer suffering.
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Nancy DeBarr
October 23, 2017 at 10:07 pm
Pobocik Family, we are so very sorry for your loss. I have such special heart pictures of Mark and siblings, climbi g trees, bothering the neighbors pigs, and jumping into the pool. It is so very difficult to lose family. Placing you all in prayer on God’s lap. The Lustick family
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Sue Storey
October 23, 2017 at 10:41 pm
My deepest condolence to the family. I worked with Mark at Central Middle School. What a wonderful person, always with a smile.
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Michael Kwast
October 24, 2017 at 1:13 am
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the family and friends.
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Jim Traweek
October 24, 2017 at 1:18 am
I had the pleasure of meeting MARK thru his sister Becky and her husband Gary Ashford in Toledo Ohio about 10 years ago . I immediately was drawn to his enthusiasm and vitality and our great love of the out of doors. I knew he was a good man. I regret we won’t be able to build on our too short friendship.
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Rob and Christina Lamm
October 24, 2017 at 3:13 am
Ah.. my dearest and best friend Mark I am so thankful for all the wonderful adventures we shared, for your insight and guidance in my life. I am honored and blessed to have known you all these years. And knowing you – you’ll be touching our hearts still from way up there!
I’m so glad to have met Mark – getting to know him was like meeting an old and dear friend right off the bat – so easy to talk to and share the deepest thoughts – such a generous and kind heart
so sad for your loss – but so glad he’s out of pain!
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Jody Montell
October 24, 2017 at 4:02 am
Rest in love dear Mark. You are home at last. Aloha Ed and Jody
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Judy Clute Brown
October 24, 2017 at 6:14 am
To my cousin’s, my deepest sympathy to all.
Mark, you lived your life to the fullest, savoring your passions to the end. God has blessed you in this life! Now enjoy the love and joy of eternal life with your creator. May you Rest In Peace.
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Beverly Curnutt
October 24, 2017 at 7:29 am
I’m so sorry to learn of Mark’s death. I knew him as an innovative teacher at Midland Public Schools who always had the best interest of his students uppermost in mind. He will be missed.
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Jill Staszak
October 24, 2017 at 8:09 am
Mark was a colleague at Eastlawn, a clay buddy in the pottery studio, and an out door friend, kayaking, cross country skiing, and hiking. He was always learning, always teaching, into whatever he was doing 100% and with enthusiasm. And always in the moment with appreciation. His friendship left me with good memories and his lessons have made me a better person.
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Helen Gibbons
October 24, 2017 at 8:43 am
Aloha Mark! Thanks for always encouraging and being there for others! I hope and pray you found the peace you were looking for!
Helen
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Sr. Mary Pung
October 24, 2017 at 9:05 am
So sorry for your loss Chris & Linda and all the family. All of you will be in my prayers that God will give comfort and peace to everyone as your mourn Mark’s death.
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Allan Fowler
October 24, 2017 at 9:27 am
Luke…so very sorry to hear of the passing of your father. Our thoughts and prayers with you and the family.
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Mark Pawlus
October 24, 2017 at 10:02 am
Next month would be 46 years since two wild and crazy 18 year olds held each others hand on the way to Viet Nam . I miss you already.R.I.P. my brother … Jake Peter and Luke , have no doubt about the pride he had for each of you, stay in peace.
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Bob Pobocik and Silvia Cruz-Pobocik
October 24, 2017 at 11:57 am
Cousin, I know the beauty, wisdom, and the light that is you will carry on in the hearts of everyone that had the privilege of knowing you. Thank you for blessing us all with your love!
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Donald & Mary Allison
October 24, 2017 at 12:45 pm
We are so sorry for the loss of your father. Keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
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Warren & Amy Wynalda
October 24, 2017 at 1:14 pm
Thinking of the whole family during this difficult time.
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Eliza
October 24, 2017 at 1:15 pm
Mr. Pobocik was my favorite teacher and I’m very sad to hear of his passing. Deepest condolences to the family
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Stephanie Ocenasek Brown
October 24, 2017 at 1:55 pm
I am so very sorry for your loss. Our families went to St. Mary’s Queen of Angels, Swartz Creek together. I grew up with Mark from 1st grade though graduation. I knew him to be a kind person with an awesome smile. May the angels guide you on your way, Mark, and may they wrap their arms around your family and give them strength. Until we meet again!
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Tim and Leslie Ricketts
October 24, 2017 at 5:54 pm
Anyone who met Mark was so blessed. His enthusiasm for life was contagious. Always wanting to help us when ever and where ever. Boy we’ll miss that smile! Thanks for being such a great friend to us.
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Grace
October 24, 2017 at 6:19 pm
I am so sorry to see my 6th grade teacher pass. My favorite memory of Mr. Pobocik was him preparing me for my trip to Hawaii by telling me where to go, what to eat, what to see, ect. Thinking of the family.
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Teresa Pobocik- Stevenson
October 24, 2017 at 6:36 pm
I will always remember listening to to all your fabulous stories of your adventures though all your travels as if I was there with you! You always had a kind word to say or witty come back with a wink of your eye I pray for peace for your family and know you will be looking out for all of us! Rest in Peace Mark❤ Love, Teke
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Kay Conklin
October 24, 2017 at 7:06 pm
So very sorry for your loss. I had the opportunity to work with Mark for a few years; he was a teacher and I was the school Administrative Assistant. He was one of my favorite teachers to work with; always ready to help out; always willing to go the extra mile and an all around kind, generous and caring person. He did something simple for me once that really made a difference to me and a long lasting impact on my life. I’ll never forget him. So very glad my path crossed his and that I have these great memories.
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Helen Nagashima
October 24, 2017 at 7:48 pm
You lived life to the fullest, your spirit lives on within all of us..so happy to have been part of your life while you lived here in Hawaii. RIP..
Warmest Aloha..Helen & Tad
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Wade Carver
October 24, 2017 at 11:42 pm
I knew Mark from kayaking with him with East Coast Paddlers group and he’ll be missed. Mark was nice easy guy person and loved to be on the water and out in nature. My condolences to his family and friends✌️
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Camille Gerace Nitschky
October 25, 2017 at 1:58 am
What a wonderful, fun loving man to sit next to at a pottery wheel. Just got a glimpse of all the amazing things he did, the people he loved and the adventures he traveled. He left heart prints wherever he went and he will always be remembered. Tell his story. Share his spirit and enthusiasm. What a beautiful sense of humor and zest for life. Thank you Mark for your inspiration. For being a dynamic teacher for our children. For your purposeful listening and Presence. You made the world a better place and will continue to do so as people continue to hold you in their hearts.
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Jeff Beckwith
October 25, 2017 at 9:11 am
Mark was a colleague of mine at Jefferson Middleschool where we spent many a morning discussing issues and philosophies of the day. One of the biggest and most memorable was about retirement and living your life to the fullest, which is exactly what Mark did. I will miss the cross country skiing, throwing clay, and the occasional beer we shared, but mostly I will miss our conversations.
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Teresa Petrimoulx
October 25, 2017 at 11:50 am
I am shocked and so sad to see this. I taught with Mark at Chippewassee Elementary and saw him out in the community periodically since then. He was very dedicated to everything he did. He contributed much to the lives of his students and also his fellow teachers. I offer my deepest condolences to his family . . . and particularly his children.
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Donna Patch
October 25, 2017 at 12:37 pm
So very sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.
The Patch family.
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Amy and Nick DiGiandomenico
October 25, 2017 at 2:37 pm
Nick and I are so sorry for your loss. Keeping your families in our prayers.
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David A. Ward
October 25, 2017 at 3:12 pm
Sadly grieving with you folks. Mark’s humor always went to the heart! Thinking on times all the way back to grade school and serving as altar boys. Learning that Latin Mass was tough just memorizing just Latin sounds! Using The Jerusalem Bible, how comforting when it says at John 5:28 “the hour is coming when the dead will leave their graves at the sound of his voice”. As he told Lazarus at John 11:43 “Come out!” And how satisfying at Matthew 5:4 “Happy the gentle they shall have the earth for their heritage”. Yes, what a joy, then, to see loved ones again!
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Julie Ortiz
October 25, 2017 at 8:32 pm
Mark was thoughtful, kind, and sincere. I know he will be missed dearly.
With deepest sympathy,
Julie Ortiz
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Vivek Jaikamal
October 25, 2017 at 10:03 pm
Jake, extremely sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please accept my deepest condolences. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.
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Rodney & Patricia Wong
October 26, 2017 at 12:26 am
Our thoughts and prayers to the Pobocik family. Mark will be deeply missed by all of his Hilo ohana.
Rodney, Patricia, Jodi (Leone), and Mike Wong
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Cindra
October 26, 2017 at 2:22 pm
Mark was a great man and a friend to all.
He will always be missed in our hearts.
Sincere condolences to his family.
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G.A. Rock (Hilo, HI)
October 26, 2017 at 2:24 pm
Mark was a true friend and we shared many wonderful outdoor adventures together here on the Big Island …. sometimes just the two of us and sometimes with our entire families as the kids were growing up.
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Mary Mersereau-Kempf
October 26, 2017 at 10:56 pm
Mark’s family,
I join you in mourning a tremendous loss and celebrating an incredible life! It was my privilege to teach with Mark, work with him after he moved beyond elementary and connect randomly. Vividly remember our last conversation after a yoga class.
May you find comfort in precious memories.
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Fred P. Baker
October 27, 2017 at 1:39 pm
To Mark’s Three Sons-
Your Father was one of the dearest, kindest people I have ever known. He was immensely proud of each of you. He lived life to its fullest. It was my privilege to call him my colleague and my friend.
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Chris Luce
October 29, 2017 at 4:29 pm
So sorry to hear. I worked with Mark in Hawaii and with our young families had good times together. We’d recently reconnected (very briefly) on FB. He didn’t mention his health. Instead, he focused on his trip down the Oregon coast and I admired his pictures and ability to appreciate the beauty around him. My condolences to Mark’s loved ones.
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Winkel Funeral Home
July 1, 2023 at 11:53 pm
Hey unc, thinking of you, fire and too much beer tonight. Beef overcooked but just right glad to share the headspace tonight, keep your eyes on the heavens, we’ll think of you and others while shooting some off in the days ahead.
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