Mark Allan Summerland

Mark Allan Summerland, 63, of Gaylord went home suddenly to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on July 25th, 2016.

Mark was born on September 24, 1952 in San Antonio, Texas. The son of Air Force parents, much of his childhood was spent on bases in Alaska, Kansas, Florida, and Texas.  In Mark’s high school years, the family moved home to Gaylord after his father’s retirement.

Mark graduated from Gaylord High School in 1970 and attended Ferris State University pursuing a career in Forestry. He spent most of his adult years working in the woods or at the family sawmill. This type of work was his passion for his entire life.

Some of the things Mark enjoyed most were working with his hands and employing his creativity through wood and metal working. Mark also enjoyed photography as a hobby. More than anything, he took great joy in family events and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a great friend to many and was always generous and willing to lend a helping hand.  He will be deeply missed. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Elma Summerland and son, Austin Summerland. He is survived by his wife Barbara Summerland, brother, Craig Summerland, son Nicholas (Dawn) Summerland, and grandchildren Brodie, Reese, Jeffery, and Barett as well as step-children Airlia Partlo (husband Tim, children Zachary and Isabelle), Chris Sandner and Tara Jans (son Camden)

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday July 30, 2016 at the Gaylord E-Free Church where the family will visit with friends beginning at 2:00 PM.  Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the family through Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, P.O. Box 249, Gaylord, MI  49734.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com