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Celebrating the life of

Mark Thomas Newkirk

February 16, 1952 - January 17, 2011

Mark Thomas Newkirk

SAVANNAH - Mark Thomas Newkirk, age 58, passed away suddenly on Monday, January 17, 2011.

He was born in Pocatello, Idaho on Feb. 16, 1952 and lived in numerous places around the world. Before age 18 Mark had lived in Idaho, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Morocco and Turkey.

He was a flight instructor with Flight Safety International and trained pilots on the Gulfstream 450 and 550. He previously served as a 747 Captain with China Air and American International Airways.

His flight experience included time in multiple commercial aircraft and he participated in war games training of Air Force pilots in Okinawa, Japan.

Mark, most of all loved his family. His children, Thompson and Nina, were his true inspirations. He was an avid boater and camper and traveled often with his wife and children to various destinations around the world.

Mark held a second degree black belt in Shorin Rye Karate and instructed adults and children. He served as a mentor to everyone through his teaching. Mark was recognized by his family and friends as a centered person and a calm and steady anchor.

And he was an excellent cook.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father Millie Newkirk and Thomas Newkirk of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Rauers Newkirk, a son Thompson Colin Newkirk, a daughter Nina Elizabeth Newkirk, a brother David Newkirk Betty and a sister Susan West |Jim, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation is 5-7 pm Wednesday at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral services are 2 pm Thursday at Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church.
Remembrances may be made to Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church, 1008 East Henry Street, Savannah, GA 31401 or to the charity of your choice.

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Elizabeth, From your friends at the All State Cafe. So sorry to hear about Mark's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Glenn Johnson

- glenn t. johnson, New York, NY

Mark, Sorry we lost touch over the years.. You were a good friend, and the best flight instructor I knew. God Bless

- Bob Perina, Bellerose, Queens, NY

I heard out of the blue about this from the Alleys yesterday. I had no idea! Even though we were casual acquaintances, Taxes of all things I was very taken with him as a person and was delighted to see him again at the Alleys Pats birthday. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

- NEVILLE STEIN, SAVANNAH, GA

Mark Newkirk was my uncle, I am his older sister Susan's child Rebecca. Ohhhhhh.....Mark T. Newkirk YOU were so much more than just an'uncle'. Mark was my anchor, my confidant, my inspiration, and one of the only 2 strong male role models I have ever had during my tumultuous childhood, and through my less than graceful transition to adulthood. As I grew up without a father, Mark Newkirk, and Thomas Newlirk Mark's father were my strong male role models in my life due to circumstance. How lucky am I?! I loved them both more than words could ever adequately express. They always and forever will be 2 of the most amazing men I have ever known, and I still am in shock that my last Mr.Incredible is gone. If anything, this reunion brought us remaining Newkirks closer together, and we are now a tighter family unit than we were before this tragic incident. Elizabeth, Thompson, Nina, Julian, Maxwell, David, Betty, Alex, Charlotte, Susan mom, and Jim: I love every single one of you. Our family is AWESOME! In addition, we all are so fortunate to have had so many people that loved Mark surrounding us during a time of painful loss. We ALL love you Mark, and our healing shall be slow, but steady. However you, Mark Thomas Newkirk, were remarkable and unforgettable You will forever hold onto a piece of my heart. I love you Mark. Rebecca Jones, Mark Newkirk's niece- Hampton, VA

- Rebecca Jones, Hampton, VA

Elizabeth, I am so sorry about the loss of your husband. I never met him, but it is obvious that you are a person with a happy love and family life. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your children. You are all in my thoughts. Lind Hollingsworth

- Lind Hollingsworth, Savannah, GA

Dear Newkirks, I was in shock over your husband/father's passing when I met you all at the memorial. Several of us at work were discussing him today and we still could not believe he is gone. It was a priviledge to have known him since he came to work at FlightSafety. I spoke with him on several occasions and can tell you that he was very proud of you all. We never quit missing departed loved ones but we have to continue living while we are here. May God bless you and keep you strong.

- John Menefee, Savannah, GA

Although I have only known Mr. Newkirk for less than one year, he has had a tremendous influence on me. Despite the fact that I am a young private pilot with little experience, Mr. Newkirk gave me the invaluable experience of flying in a jet simulator. But more than just that, he met with me over coffee to talk aviation, and he even gave me some of his old aviation literature. He was incredibly kind and generous in doing all this, and I will never forget what he has done to help me try and become a professional pilot.

- Stewart Calder, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson & Nina, Please know that my thoughts and masses of prayers are with you all during this heart breaking time. Even though I never had the pleasure of meeting Mark/your Dad, I am sure he was an incredible guy. Extra special love to you Elizabeth.

- Lynne' Byrd Harris, Jacksonville, FL

Dear Elizabeth and Family, I was saddened to hear of the loss of your husband and father, Mark. It has been years since we have seen each other but I always feel I could pick up our friendship where we left off. I am always hoping you will grace one of our Ashley Hall reunions- I go to every one of them. The thing that impresses me most is that you and Mark, along with so many others in our AH clan, met at a young age and married and have maintained a strong and beautiful relationship. I am hurting for your loss of your best friend and husband. From reading other memories I can tell he was a very special human being. Keeping you and Thompson and Nina in my prayers, Amanda Beeson Lora Taos, NM

- Amanda Lora, Taos, NM

Deepest sympathies.

- Joel Auve, Port Wentworth, GA

Elizabeth, Only after meeting you and Mark at 'ROCK THE DOCKS' anti-drugparty at the church where our son Joseph played in the band.Then we met again at Thompsons Eagle Scout Program. I was very pleased knowing Joseph was being around a loving and caring family. Accept our Condolences and Prayers. God Be With the family.

- Marilyn,Al & Joseph Hernandez, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth: I am one of your yoga students at the Y, a short older lady with an accent who has not been attending your class lately because of schedule conflicts. I wanted to tell you how shocked I was to see your husband's obituary in the Savannah Morning News earlier this week. My heart went out to you immediately and I've been thinking of you and your children all week. Even though you didn't dwell on it, it has always been obvious to me that your home and family life were the most important things to you and the very center of your life. Even at this late age, I can't imagine anything worse than losing your life's partner - and so I wanted to reach out to you to wish you courage, strength and stamina to face the days ahead and the tremendous change in your life. Please give your children an extra hug today to convey to them the sympathy of those who appreciate you as a teacher. Namaste, Susana

- Susana Bourland, Savannah, GA

Dearest Elizabeth.... Billy called me this morning and told me what happened to Mark... I`m so sorry... Words cannot express what I feel in my heart for you and your children... My thoughts and prayers are with you. With my deepest sympathy... Donna Billy`s cousin

- Donna Coulter, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina, You always had been the best neighbors, that I ever have had. I'll never forget how Mark always help me with any electrical problems, and how he took the window out and put the dry wall up, I was so impressed how he took the time to show Thompson how to fix the windows on my house. I know this is a very hard time you are going through, but remember that Mark will always be with you, the memories you keep in your hearts will stay with you forever, nothing can take them away fom you. If you need any help, or somebody to talk to please don't hesitate to call me. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

- Judith Simpson, Savannah, GA

My dear Elizabeth, Thompson and Nina, Gosh, the memories I have treasured and told and retold about Tyler and Thompson are etched on my heart. But when I think of Mark, my first memory is of him walking the kids to preschool, coffee cup in hand, slow, steady pace and a smile on his face. My heart aches as I process this news of Mark's passing. I love you all and know in the future the wonderful memories of Mark, dedicated father and steady husband will comfort each of you. Of course, there are no words to express my sadness in this sudden loss. Love, Melodie, Tyler and Stanley

- Melodie M. Moore, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth and family My prayers are with you during this time. May you draw strength from God and know that your loved one is with Him now and you will one day see him again. God bless.

- Beth Pugh, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth,Nina and Thompson. I was fortunate to spend last weekend with Mark training on the G450. What little time we spent together he was very cordial and happy doing what he loved. He will be missed!

- Bill Harris, Hamilton, VA

Dear Elizabeth, Thompson and Nina, Mark was one of the nicest, classiest, coolest and most interesting people you could ever hope to meet. He was so fascinating to talk and I felt like I left every conversation we ever had having gained from his wisdom and stories of his many travels. He was a fine man, great friend and an outstanding co-worker. My husband, Scott, trained with Mark in the G450 sim for several years now and enjoyed getting to know him as well. We are so saddened for your loss and we pray that you will find comfort in your wonderful memories of him... With deepest sympathy, Ana and Scott FSI

- Ana Prieto Curtis, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabath, Thomas, and Nina, We are so sorry to hear about Mark. We just heard and I am at a loss at what to say. Please know we thinking of you all and we will keep your family in our prayers. I just saw him in Cutters before Christmas, he was looking through cook books and trying to decide on a special dish to make. We spoke for just a minute to express how we were looking forward to have the kids home soon for the holidays. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. sincerely, The Whelan Family

- Whelan Family, Savannah, GA

To Elizabeth, Nina, Thomspson and extended family, Some life altering events occur and we do not understand 'why?' We can only believe Mark is continuing to guide others in a different way in a different place. I wish I knew my cousin, Mark better but the time I did share with him during his visits to Berks County, PA was always interesting. I will always have fond memories of him and saddened by his sudden death. May the love of your family and friends comfort you. Brenda and Phil Mell

- Brenda, Reading, PA

Dear Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson, I was so shocked and saddened this morning when I heard the news. Although I didn't ever have the chance to get to know Mark very well, I know he was such a special person, husband and father. Elizabeth, it doesn't matter how much time has passed or the fact that we don't see each other much, I still consider you my best friend! I love you and I want you to know that although I wasn't able to be there today, you were all in my thoughts and prayers.....take care, I will call you again soon. HUGS : Love, Debbie

- Debbie Inglesby VanBrackle, Richmond Hill, GA

Words can not express how saddened we are for your loss. Mark was a wonderful loving and happy character who had a contagious smile and warm personality. Mark loved to share his 'nuggets of knowledge' with others and considered flying being close to God. Mark, a very trusted man will truly be missed among his teammates. Please accept our most sincere condolences, Tommy & Katherine Owens

- Tom and Katherine Owens, Savannah, GA

Mrs. Newkirk and Thompson - Along with myself and the entire Memorial Day School family, your family is in our prayers as we were shocked and saddened to see Mr. Newkirk's sudden passing. Words can not express our feeling. Please know that you are loved and are in our hearts and minds as you go forward honoring the memory of your wonderful husband and father.

- Mark Sussman, Savannah, GA

Mark and I flew together with Connie Collita on the DC8, we came very good friends. There is none that comes close to Mark's incredible attitude towards people and life, I consider Mark one of my best friends. I will miss him greatly....what a loss.

- Johan Dekker, Hardeeville, SC

It was just last week that Mark shared how his children's names were chosen. Every week, there was a story of Thompson and Nina. I never have gotten to meet them but feel I know them through their father's love. His only goal in life were that his children grew up strong and successful. Just this last Monday he was in the office being his usual funny self. That is the memory I am left with. To Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina; my prayers are with you right now. You 3 were Mark's everything.

- Jennifer Birdsbill, Richmond Hill, GA

To the Newkirk family my deepest condolences in this time of grief. Mark was a friend and was always there if you had a question or just wanted to chat. We will miss him.

- DICK DONICA, SAVANNAH, GA

Elizabeth, Thomson and Nina, Mark was one of a kind and we will always remember his wonderful smile. Our heartfelt prayers go out to you for your loss.

- Neil & Patti Victor, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth and family, Tom and I were so sorry to learn of Marks' passing. Our thoughts and our love are with you all. Tom and Jinny

- Tom and Jinny Latham, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thomson and Nina, Mark was and always will be the most kind, fun and tenderhearted man I have ever met. His stories of you all were astounding to listen to. I will always cherish every word he ever spoke. Elizabeth, I remember meeting you on New Years Eve. You both fit so well together and I could definately tell you are the love of his life. Thomson we all remember how proud of you he was when we met you in our office a while ago. I am sorry to have never met you Nina but the way he spoke of you all was with full love and bliss. God bless you and your family during this difficult time. Please know he will dearly be missed and definately made a lasting impression on all of our lives. With deepest love and admiration.

- Darold and Jamie Bishop, Ellabell, GA

Elizabeth, Brent and I want you to know that you and your children are in our prayers. I pray that God's love will surround you, bringing comfort to you and your family in this time of need.

- Debbie Rose, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, We send our deepest sympathy to you and yours. May the Lord guide you through this difficult time. We hold you near in thought and prayer. Godspeed, Patrick and Kathleen McPherson

- Patrick and Kathleen McPherson, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina I am very sorry to hear about your loss. The news was very shocking to me. I know that this is a very tough time for all of you, but Mark lives on in each one of you. Mark has always been one of the most caring and respectful men that I have ever met. It was an honor and a privilege to be apart of such a great man's life. -Elizabeth: you and Mark have always been a staple in my life growing up and no matter what the future holds that can never be taken away. Both of you were almost like our second parents. He will be missed by not a few but an entire community. -Thompson and Nina: Both of you have been a part of my brother’s life and mine, since I can remember. Your dad always seemed happiest when he was around you two. Your dad will now live on through both of yall. Remember, your friends and family are always here for you, Thompson and Nina. Mark was the kind of guy who will always be missed, but never forgotten!! Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. ~Author Unknown

- William Feus, , GA

Mark was a kindred spirit, dedicated teacher, aficionado of life and a kind soul. He was always willing to lend a hand, make one smile or share a shoulder. He will be missed and I was fortunate to know him.

- Lawrence Staab, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Nina & Thompson, I am so saddened by the loss of your husband/father. What a blessed family you are to know that Mark is in heaven and you will see him again. Please accept my condolences and prayers for God's love to surround you and peace to fill your hearts.

- Kerry Johnson-Smith & Family, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson, I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Mark's passing. He was truly a gift from God to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be greatly missed by everyone. Take care, Love, Sheila Mark's cousin

- sheila palmieri, wernersville, PA

My heart goes out to my sister Elizabeth and to Thompson and Nina and all Mark's family. Life can be such a mystery. What I know now is you are surrounded by loving friends. And I am there in the midst. See you soon. With deep love and sympathy, Tricia

- Tricia, Asheville, NC

When I think of any person who lived life to the fullest it is my cousin Mark. I have spemt my whole life in Berks County, Pennsylvania, he spent his life all over the world. He was handsome,smart, caring, loving and could carry on a conversation better than anyone else I know. Our thoughts and prayers for peace are with everyone who knew him. To know Mark was to love Mark. Peace to all. Love Carol and James

- Carol Ann Goodhart, Wyomissing, PA

It is difficult for everyone at FlightSafety to handle Mark's sudden passing. Just yesterday he was training a crew in the G450, and tomorrow he was scheduled to go flying. Two things he loved to do. If Mark ever had a care in the world, you would never know it. His friendly smile, relaxed nature and positive attitude made him a friend to all. Mark made a big difference in the lives of everyone who knew him, whether it was through training always patient and understanding or just taking a few minutes to stop an chat - it was never wasted time. He alwyas spoke so positively of his family, and I always got the impression he helped Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson live an uncomplicated life. Mark will be greatly missed by everyone at FlightSafety.

- David Davenport, Savannah, GA

Mark and I were instructors following careers as pilots. I considered Mark to be one of the most knowledgeable and friendly men in the building. I will miss him, as will many others. Our prayers are with Mark's family during this difficult time.

- Jerry Ragsdale, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, Nina; Mark made me better at so many things. Thank you for sharing him with me. I will miss him. I pray that God will grant you sweet memories of the past, strength for the present, and peace for the future.

- Steve Schmidt, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina - thank you for sharing your husband/father with us in aviation. Mark's knowledge, patience, and compassion will be missed. I consider it a privilege to have known and learned from this fine example of a man.

- Wayne Knittel, Saint Simons Island, GA

Elizabeth, From your friends at the All State Cafe. So sorry to hear about Mark's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Glenn Johnson

- glenn t. johnson, New York, NY

Mark, Sorry we lost touch over the years.. You were a good friend, and the best flight instructor I knew. God Bless

- Bob Perina, Bellerose, Queens, NY

I heard out of the blue about this from the Alleys yesterday. I had no idea! Even though we were casual acquaintances, Taxes of all things I was very taken with him as a person and was delighted to see him again at the Alleys Pats birthday. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

- NEVILLE STEIN, SAVANNAH, GA

Mark Newkirk was my uncle, I am his older sister Susan's child Rebecca. Ohhhhhh.....Mark T. Newkirk YOU were so much more than just an'uncle'. Mark was my anchor, my confidant, my inspiration, and one of the only 2 strong male role models I have ever had during my tumultuous childhood, and through my less than graceful transition to adulthood. As I grew up without a father, Mark Newkirk, and Thomas Newlirk Mark's father were my strong male role models in my life due to circumstance. How lucky am I?! I loved them both more than words could ever adequately express. They always and forever will be 2 of the most amazing men I have ever known, and I still am in shock that my last Mr.Incredible is gone. If anything, this reunion brought us remaining Newkirks closer together, and we are now a tighter family unit than we were before this tragic incident. Elizabeth, Thompson, Nina, Julian, Maxwell, David, Betty, Alex, Charlotte, Susan mom, and Jim: I love every single one of you. Our family is AWESOME! In addition, we all are so fortunate to have had so many people that loved Mark surrounding us during a time of painful loss. We ALL love you Mark, and our healing shall be slow, but steady. However you, Mark Thomas Newkirk, were remarkable and unforgettable You will forever hold onto a piece of my heart. I love you Mark. Rebecca Jones, Mark Newkirk's niece- Hampton, VA

- Rebecca Jones, Hampton, VA

Elizabeth, I am so sorry about the loss of your husband. I never met him, but it is obvious that you are a person with a happy love and family life. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your children. You are all in my thoughts. Lind Hollingsworth

- Lind Hollingsworth, Savannah, GA

Dear Newkirks, I was in shock over your husband/father's passing when I met you all at the memorial. Several of us at work were discussing him today and we still could not believe he is gone. It was a priviledge to have known him since he came to work at FlightSafety. I spoke with him on several occasions and can tell you that he was very proud of you all. We never quit missing departed loved ones but we have to continue living while we are here. May God bless you and keep you strong.

- John Menefee, Savannah, GA

Although I have only known Mr. Newkirk for less than one year, he has had a tremendous influence on me. Despite the fact that I am a young private pilot with little experience, Mr. Newkirk gave me the invaluable experience of flying in a jet simulator. But more than just that, he met with me over coffee to talk aviation, and he even gave me some of his old aviation literature. He was incredibly kind and generous in doing all this, and I will never forget what he has done to help me try and become a professional pilot.

- Stewart Calder, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson & Nina, Please know that my thoughts and masses of prayers are with you all during this heart breaking time. Even though I never had the pleasure of meeting Mark/your Dad, I am sure he was an incredible guy. Extra special love to you Elizabeth.

- Lynne' Byrd Harris, Jacksonville, FL

Dear Elizabeth and Family, I was saddened to hear of the loss of your husband and father, Mark. It has been years since we have seen each other but I always feel I could pick up our friendship where we left off. I am always hoping you will grace one of our Ashley Hall reunions- I go to every one of them. The thing that impresses me most is that you and Mark, along with so many others in our AH clan, met at a young age and married and have maintained a strong and beautiful relationship. I am hurting for your loss of your best friend and husband. From reading other memories I can tell he was a very special human being. Keeping you and Thompson and Nina in my prayers, Amanda Beeson Lora Taos, NM

- Amanda Lora, Taos, NM

Deepest sympathies.

- Joel Auve, Port Wentworth, GA

Elizabeth, Only after meeting you and Mark at 'ROCK THE DOCKS' anti-drugparty at the church where our son Joseph played in the band.Then we met again at Thompsons Eagle Scout Program. I was very pleased knowing Joseph was being around a loving and caring family. Accept our Condolences and Prayers. God Be With the family.

- Marilyn,Al & Joseph Hernandez, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth: I am one of your yoga students at the Y, a short older lady with an accent who has not been attending your class lately because of schedule conflicts. I wanted to tell you how shocked I was to see your husband's obituary in the Savannah Morning News earlier this week. My heart went out to you immediately and I've been thinking of you and your children all week. Even though you didn't dwell on it, it has always been obvious to me that your home and family life were the most important things to you and the very center of your life. Even at this late age, I can't imagine anything worse than losing your life's partner - and so I wanted to reach out to you to wish you courage, strength and stamina to face the days ahead and the tremendous change in your life. Please give your children an extra hug today to convey to them the sympathy of those who appreciate you as a teacher. Namaste, Susana

- Susana Bourland, Savannah, GA

Dearest Elizabeth.... Billy called me this morning and told me what happened to Mark... I`m so sorry... Words cannot express what I feel in my heart for you and your children... My thoughts and prayers are with you. With my deepest sympathy... Donna Billy`s cousin

- Donna Coulter, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina, You always had been the best neighbors, that I ever have had. I'll never forget how Mark always help me with any electrical problems, and how he took the window out and put the dry wall up, I was so impressed how he took the time to show Thompson how to fix the windows on my house. I know this is a very hard time you are going through, but remember that Mark will always be with you, the memories you keep in your hearts will stay with you forever, nothing can take them away fom you. If you need any help, or somebody to talk to please don't hesitate to call me. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

- Judith Simpson, Savannah, GA

My dear Elizabeth, Thompson and Nina, Gosh, the memories I have treasured and told and retold about Tyler and Thompson are etched on my heart. But when I think of Mark, my first memory is of him walking the kids to preschool, coffee cup in hand, slow, steady pace and a smile on his face. My heart aches as I process this news of Mark's passing. I love you all and know in the future the wonderful memories of Mark, dedicated father and steady husband will comfort each of you. Of course, there are no words to express my sadness in this sudden loss. Love, Melodie, Tyler and Stanley

- Melodie M. Moore, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth and family My prayers are with you during this time. May you draw strength from God and know that your loved one is with Him now and you will one day see him again. God bless.

- Beth Pugh, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth,Nina and Thompson. I was fortunate to spend last weekend with Mark training on the G450. What little time we spent together he was very cordial and happy doing what he loved. He will be missed!

- Bill Harris, Hamilton, VA

Dear Elizabeth, Thompson and Nina, Mark was one of the nicest, classiest, coolest and most interesting people you could ever hope to meet. He was so fascinating to talk and I felt like I left every conversation we ever had having gained from his wisdom and stories of his many travels. He was a fine man, great friend and an outstanding co-worker. My husband, Scott, trained with Mark in the G450 sim for several years now and enjoyed getting to know him as well. We are so saddened for your loss and we pray that you will find comfort in your wonderful memories of him... With deepest sympathy, Ana and Scott FSI

- Ana Prieto Curtis, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabath, Thomas, and Nina, We are so sorry to hear about Mark. We just heard and I am at a loss at what to say. Please know we thinking of you all and we will keep your family in our prayers. I just saw him in Cutters before Christmas, he was looking through cook books and trying to decide on a special dish to make. We spoke for just a minute to express how we were looking forward to have the kids home soon for the holidays. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. sincerely, The Whelan Family

- Whelan Family, Savannah, GA

To Elizabeth, Nina, Thomspson and extended family, Some life altering events occur and we do not understand 'why?' We can only believe Mark is continuing to guide others in a different way in a different place. I wish I knew my cousin, Mark better but the time I did share with him during his visits to Berks County, PA was always interesting. I will always have fond memories of him and saddened by his sudden death. May the love of your family and friends comfort you. Brenda and Phil Mell

- Brenda, Reading, PA

Dear Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson, I was so shocked and saddened this morning when I heard the news. Although I didn't ever have the chance to get to know Mark very well, I know he was such a special person, husband and father. Elizabeth, it doesn't matter how much time has passed or the fact that we don't see each other much, I still consider you my best friend! I love you and I want you to know that although I wasn't able to be there today, you were all in my thoughts and prayers.....take care, I will call you again soon. HUGS : Love, Debbie

- Debbie Inglesby VanBrackle, Richmond Hill, GA

Words can not express how saddened we are for your loss. Mark was a wonderful loving and happy character who had a contagious smile and warm personality. Mark loved to share his 'nuggets of knowledge' with others and considered flying being close to God. Mark, a very trusted man will truly be missed among his teammates. Please accept our most sincere condolences, Tommy & Katherine Owens

- Tom and Katherine Owens, Savannah, GA

Mrs. Newkirk and Thompson - Along with myself and the entire Memorial Day School family, your family is in our prayers as we were shocked and saddened to see Mr. Newkirk's sudden passing. Words can not express our feeling. Please know that you are loved and are in our hearts and minds as you go forward honoring the memory of your wonderful husband and father.

- Mark Sussman, Savannah, GA

Mark and I flew together with Connie Collita on the DC8, we came very good friends. There is none that comes close to Mark's incredible attitude towards people and life, I consider Mark one of my best friends. I will miss him greatly....what a loss.

- Johan Dekker, Hardeeville, SC

It was just last week that Mark shared how his children's names were chosen. Every week, there was a story of Thompson and Nina. I never have gotten to meet them but feel I know them through their father's love. His only goal in life were that his children grew up strong and successful. Just this last Monday he was in the office being his usual funny self. That is the memory I am left with. To Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina; my prayers are with you right now. You 3 were Mark's everything.

- Jennifer Birdsbill, Richmond Hill, GA

To the Newkirk family my deepest condolences in this time of grief. Mark was a friend and was always there if you had a question or just wanted to chat. We will miss him.

- DICK DONICA, SAVANNAH, GA

Elizabeth, Thomson and Nina, Mark was one of a kind and we will always remember his wonderful smile. Our heartfelt prayers go out to you for your loss.

- Neil & Patti Victor, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth and family, Tom and I were so sorry to learn of Marks' passing. Our thoughts and our love are with you all. Tom and Jinny

- Tom and Jinny Latham, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thomson and Nina, Mark was and always will be the most kind, fun and tenderhearted man I have ever met. His stories of you all were astounding to listen to. I will always cherish every word he ever spoke. Elizabeth, I remember meeting you on New Years Eve. You both fit so well together and I could definately tell you are the love of his life. Thomson we all remember how proud of you he was when we met you in our office a while ago. I am sorry to have never met you Nina but the way he spoke of you all was with full love and bliss. God bless you and your family during this difficult time. Please know he will dearly be missed and definately made a lasting impression on all of our lives. With deepest love and admiration.

- Darold and Jamie Bishop, Ellabell, GA

Elizabeth, Brent and I want you to know that you and your children are in our prayers. I pray that God's love will surround you, bringing comfort to you and your family in this time of need.

- Debbie Rose, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, We send our deepest sympathy to you and yours. May the Lord guide you through this difficult time. We hold you near in thought and prayer. Godspeed, Patrick and Kathleen McPherson

- Patrick and Kathleen McPherson, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina I am very sorry to hear about your loss. The news was very shocking to me. I know that this is a very tough time for all of you, but Mark lives on in each one of you. Mark has always been one of the most caring and respectful men that I have ever met. It was an honor and a privilege to be apart of such a great man's life. -Elizabeth: you and Mark have always been a staple in my life growing up and no matter what the future holds that can never be taken away. Both of you were almost like our second parents. He will be missed by not a few but an entire community. -Thompson and Nina: Both of you have been a part of my brother’s life and mine, since I can remember. Your dad always seemed happiest when he was around you two. Your dad will now live on through both of yall. Remember, your friends and family are always here for you, Thompson and Nina. Mark was the kind of guy who will always be missed, but never forgotten!! Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. ~Author Unknown

- William Feus, , GA

Mark was a kindred spirit, dedicated teacher, aficionado of life and a kind soul. He was always willing to lend a hand, make one smile or share a shoulder. He will be missed and I was fortunate to know him.

- Lawrence Staab, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Nina & Thompson, I am so saddened by the loss of your husband/father. What a blessed family you are to know that Mark is in heaven and you will see him again. Please accept my condolences and prayers for God's love to surround you and peace to fill your hearts.

- Kerry Johnson-Smith & Family, Savannah, GA

Dear Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson, I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Mark's passing. He was truly a gift from God to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be greatly missed by everyone. Take care, Love, Sheila Mark's cousin

- sheila palmieri, wernersville, PA

My heart goes out to my sister Elizabeth and to Thompson and Nina and all Mark's family. Life can be such a mystery. What I know now is you are surrounded by loving friends. And I am there in the midst. See you soon. With deep love and sympathy, Tricia

- Tricia, Asheville, NC

When I think of any person who lived life to the fullest it is my cousin Mark. I have spemt my whole life in Berks County, Pennsylvania, he spent his life all over the world. He was handsome,smart, caring, loving and could carry on a conversation better than anyone else I know. Our thoughts and prayers for peace are with everyone who knew him. To know Mark was to love Mark. Peace to all. Love Carol and James

- Carol Ann Goodhart, Wyomissing, PA

It is difficult for everyone at FlightSafety to handle Mark's sudden passing. Just yesterday he was training a crew in the G450, and tomorrow he was scheduled to go flying. Two things he loved to do. If Mark ever had a care in the world, you would never know it. His friendly smile, relaxed nature and positive attitude made him a friend to all. Mark made a big difference in the lives of everyone who knew him, whether it was through training always patient and understanding or just taking a few minutes to stop an chat - it was never wasted time. He alwyas spoke so positively of his family, and I always got the impression he helped Elizabeth, Nina and Thompson live an uncomplicated life. Mark will be greatly missed by everyone at FlightSafety.

- David Davenport, Savannah, GA

Mark and I were instructors following careers as pilots. I considered Mark to be one of the most knowledgeable and friendly men in the building. I will miss him, as will many others. Our prayers are with Mark's family during this difficult time.

- Jerry Ragsdale, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, Nina; Mark made me better at so many things. Thank you for sharing him with me. I will miss him. I pray that God will grant you sweet memories of the past, strength for the present, and peace for the future.

- Steve Schmidt, Savannah, GA

Elizabeth, Thompson, and Nina - thank you for sharing your husband/father with us in aviation. Mark's knowledge, patience, and compassion will be missed. I consider it a privilege to have known and learned from this fine example of a man.

- Wayne Knittel, Saint Simons Island, GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200