Mark Edwin Coffin

Born on June 21, 1942, in Kansas City, Nebraska, to Dorothy and Willard Coffin, Mark's early life was shaped by the strength of family. After his father’s return from military service in World War II, Mark was lovingly raised by his father and paternal grandparents in Kansas. At age 10, his family relocated to Mt. Clemens, Michigan, following Willard’s marriage to Sylvia Coffin.

Mark attended Clintondale High School, where he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Cecelia "Gail" Haywood. He played football and worked diligently during school. After beginning his college studies at the University of Michigan, Mark and Gail married and soon welcomed their son, Steven, in 1961. They later celebrated the birth of their daughter, April.

Determined to further his education while supporting his young family, Mark completed his bachelor’s degree in English and education at Wayne State University, attending school part-time while working full-time. He went on to earn a master’s degree in library sciences and began his career in education as a high school librarian at Roseville High School.

In 1976, the family embarked on a life-changing journey to Berlin, Germany, where Mark accepted a position as librarian and media specialist at Berlin American High School, a Department of Defense school. There, he also coached cross-country and volleyball and became a well-known figure as a weatherman for Berlin’s Armed Forces Network (AFN) television station. His broadcasting work was recognized with several awards.

Mark and Gail’s passion for education and adventure took them across the globe. After returning briefly to Michigan in 1983, they relocated once again to Germany, where both continued their teaching careers at Department of Defense schools. In 1987, they settled in Columbia, Maryland, where Mark served as a media specialist in the Montgomery County school system until his retirement at age 67.

In retirement, Mark embraced the arts—pursuing watercolor painting, photography, and music—and gave back to his community through volunteer work with Mt. Zion Methodist Church. He and Gail continued to travel extensively, cherishing the opportunity to experience new cultures and share the beauty of the world. A favorite quote of Mark’s, by Mark Twain, reflected his worldview: "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness..."

Mark was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Cecelia Gail Coffin; He is survived by his children, Steve Mark Coffin and April Coffin Obermeyer (and husband Jim Obermeyer); and his grandchildren, Ethan Coffin, and Michael and Matthew Obermeyer. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his deep artistic curiosity, and his generous spirit.

Mark's legacy is one of compassion, education, and exploration—an enduring testament to a well-lived life.