"This We'll Defend"  wasn't just a mission Mark accepted when he first joined the United States Army, it is the most fitting description of who he was as a person. Mark carried the Army's values throughout his life an loved his family and friends greatly.

He was born on September 22, 1985 in Pomona, California and grew up in Twenty Nine Palms and Apple Valley, California. He loved to be outdoors, ride dirt bikes, camping and hiking. At the age of 9 he discovered his passion for baseball.  He was an excellent baseball player, and he played all throughout his school years. He loved working on cars, bowling, chess, watching movies and had a passion to help animals in need. After graduating from High School he joined the United States Army. Mark loved serving his country, and after his medical discharge from the Army he worked for the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

His memory will be forever cherished by his wife Juliane and son Keon, his parents Cindy and Jim, sisters Tessa and Ashley, his grandmother Deanna, aunts and uncles, his cousins and countless friends.

He is preceded in death by his beloved grandfather James V. Gaskin.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.