Mark Edward Deering, 100, a lifelong resident of Empire passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, August 19, 2016.

Mark was born in Empire on March 20, 1916 to Mark Philip and Jane (DuFrane) Deering. He married the late Alice Marie Grattopp on October 24, 1946 also in Empire at St. Philip Catholic Church. They were married for over 60 years.

Mark was a WWII veteran stationed in the Philippines. Upon return from the war he joined his father at Deering's Market as a butcher and eventually running the store. In addition to the store he farmed many fruit orchards, and with his 2 brothers Warren and Richard created the Triple D Orchards canning high quality fruit products. Throughout his life, Mark was involved in community activities and assumed leadership positions as Empire's Mayor, Firechief, and Water Commissioner. He was a dedicated member of the Lions Club and had perfect attendance for over 50 years. He was also a devoted member of St. Philip Catholic Church.

Surviving Mark are six of his children: Philip (Sue) Deering, Janet (Stan) Fox, Michael (Marina) Deering, Mark (Tammy) Deering, Linda (Bob) Chase, and David Deering; 12 grandchildren: Kim, Ryan, Josh, Emily, Peter, Chelsea,Nick, Wyatt, Mark, Heidi, Matt, and Alissa; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Mark was preceded in death by his wife Alice, his parents, 4 brothers Clifford, Tom, Warren, and Richard "Bud" and 3 sisters Alice Nelson, Velma Richards, and Jeanette Salisbury; and his son Donald Deering

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 9, 2016 from 4-7pm at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Empire, with a vigil service at 7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, September 10 at 11am, also at the St. Philp Neri Catholic Church. Burial with military honors will follow at the St. Philip Cemetery.

Memorial contributions will be directed toward replacement of the playground equipment at South Bar Lake in honor of Donald Deering.