Mark E. Stephens

Stephens, Mark Elliott. age 65 of Millerton, PA passed away Sunday, December 15th, 2013 at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY.The son of Beatrice “Bee” Stephens and her late husband Robert Stephens.He was born in Iowa City, Iowa the 27th day of August 1948.Surviving is his wife of 36 years Cathy (Taylor) Stephens of Millerton, Daughter and son in law: Melissa (Michael) Hutcheson of Tioga PA, Son Robert (Tabatha) Stephens of Tioga, PA; three grandsons: Avery Hutcheson, Riley and Elliott Stephens.; Brother Michael (Patty) Stephens of Pine City, NY; nieces Lucy and Mary, nephew Zachary Stephens.Family and friends are invited to gather at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave.Elmira, NY Saturday December 21, 2013 from 4:00PM -7:00PM and again Sunday, December 22, 2013 1:00PM – 3:00PM .A celebration of Mark’s life will be held immediately following calling hours Sunday at 3:00PM.Lay Pastor John Knapp will officiate.Graveside services and full military honors will be held Monday, December 23rdat 10 AM at the Woodlawn National Cemetery.Mark held a strong work ethic that he instilled in all who had the privilege of knowing him. With this strong work ethic, he founded and ran his company “Freestyle Striping” for 15 years for which he was very proud.The love he had for his family extended to his wrestling family as well.His will and dedication to mentoring and coaching the youth of the area leaves a profound legacy never to be matched.He was very proud to be the first New York State Wrestling Champion at Southside High School in 1966, that lead to his lifelong dream of being inducted to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame; for his Lifetime Achievements and Dedication to the sport.Mark was a Marine Corp Veteran of the Vietnam War.He would want us to celebrate his life, not mourn.Continue on, “In the Spirit of the Sport.”There are no words to express the thanks for the unprecedented care of Mark and our family at Strong Memorial Hospital, Dr. Markandaya’s team and the whole NeuroMedicine ICU 32800.They opened not only their technologic expertise but they enveloped us in love. We will be forever grateful to them for allowing us this time with him. Those wishing, please make memorials in Mark E. Stephens name to this specific unit as they move forward caring for others and learning from Mark, again. Guestbook may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com.