Mark Thomas Newkirk
SAVANNAH - Mark Thomas Newkirk, age 58, passed away suddenly on Monday, January 17, 2011.
He was born in Pocatello, Idaho on Feb. 16, 1952 and lived in numerous places around the world. Before age 18 Mark had lived in Idaho, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Morocco and Turkey.
He was a flight instructor with Flight Safety International and trained pilots on the Gulfstream 450 and 550. He previously served as a 747 Captain with China Air and American International Airways.
His flight experience included time in multiple commercial aircraft and he participated in war games training of Air Force pilots in Okinawa, Japan.
Mark, most of all loved his family. His children, Thompson and Nina, were his true inspirations. He was an avid boater and camper and traveled often with his wife and children to various destinations around the world.
Mark held a second degree black belt in Shorin Rye Karate and instructed adults and children. He served as a mentor to everyone through his teaching. Mark was recognized by his family and friends as a centered person and a calm and steady anchor.
And he was an excellent cook.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father Millie Newkirk and Thomas Newkirk of Virginia.
He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Rauers Newkirk, a son Thompson Colin Newkirk, a daughter Nina Elizabeth Newkirk, a brother David Newkirk (Betty) and a sister Susan West (|Jim), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation is 5-7 pm Wednesday at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral services are 2 pm Thursday at Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church.
Remembrances to the charity of your choice.
Published in Savannah Morning News on January 19, 2011
