Mark W. Orton

Mark W. Orton, age 60, passed away at home with his family after a five year battle with lung cancer. Mark was born on August 10, 1954 in Saratoga Springs, NY. He was preceded in death by his mother, Regina (Sesselman) Orton and his father, Wesley J. Orton.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 39 years, Kathy; son, Mark Jr. and wife, Stacy, of OK; son, Jason and wife Sara of VA; and five beloved grandchildren, Justin, Ryan, Dylan, Brianna and Hunter. He also leaves behind his sister, Debi Orton of NY; his in-laws that loved him as a brother, Sharon Cockerham, Edward Diehl and Barbara Seeley; and more extended family and friends than could be mentioned.

Mark graduated high school in 1975, and not having the opportunity for college never stopped him from pursuing a career. In 1981, he went to work for Ball Corporation in Saratoga at their new facility. Over the next 31 years, Mark traveled the world with “Ball.” Beginning as a maintainer and retiring as Plant Manager of Williamsburg Ball Metal Container Group, he had succeeded!

Mark had several interests. Doing wood working and metal work in his shop kept him busy, but traveling in our motor home was his favorite pastime. We were very fortunate to have been able to see much of the U.S. and enjoy our grandkids in our home away from home.

Dad, Mark, Pop-Pop, Honey – you will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg, on Sunday, March 15 at 1:00 PM. Please honor Mark’s wishes and wear casual attire – no suits!

Donations may be made in Mark’s honor to Personal Touch Hospice, 733 Thimble Shoals Blvd., Suite 150, Newport News, VA 23606. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.nelsencares.com.