SEARSPORT — Mark Earl Stanley, 44, of Searsport, passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2017, at his home. Mark was born March 23, 1972, the first child of Norman F. Stanley Jr. and Donna (Peavey) Stanley.

After graduating from Searsport High School, Mark enlisted into the Navy, where he spent his entire service stationed in Iceland. After military service, he enrolled at the University of Maine, graduating with a degree in sociology. Mark worked for a time at the Colonial Theater in Belfast, volunteering with the Emergency Management Service in Searsport and the Searsport Ambulance Service in his early years. Mark was a Boy Scout in his youth, enjoyed music, photography, reading and keeping up with current events.

Mark was predeceased by his father; his Grandmother Stanley; and his Grandfather Peavey. He is survived by his mother; his sister, Heidi (Stanley) Makowski and her husband, Steven, and family of Norridgewock; his grandmother, Juanita (Peavey) Worthing and her husband, George, of Liberty; his niece, Brooke Stanley of Searsport; hus aunt and uncle, Diane and David Benner and family of Warren; as well as numerous other family members and friends in Maine and Pennsylvania.

A special heartfelt thank you goes out to Officer Dennis Remillard and the ambulance crew, all of Searsport, and especially the 911 operator, who so professionally hung in with me not letting me give up.

Visiting hours will be held Sunday, March 19, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave. in Belfast. Burial will be announced at a later date at Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Searsport Ambulance Service or a charity of one's choice.