Mark Douglas Garland

Mark Garland was a man whose life was measured not only by his accomplishments, but by the countless lives he touched along the way. A devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, successful entrepreneur, accomplished Ironman triathlete, and loyal friend, Mark lived each day with purpose, determination, and a heart full of love.

Born on November 13, 1953, to Dorothy and Dale Garland, Mark built a life centered around family, hard work, and creating lasting memories. Throughout his life, he embodied compassion, charisma, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Whether through his business ventures, athletic achievements, or personal relationships, Mark had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, valued, and welcomed.

As an entrepreneur, Mark built and operated numerous successful businesses, including Skooners Grill & Bar, Cheers Bar, Whalers Bay Bar, Scuttlebutts Restaurant & Bar, Video Vision Store, and Big Bang Fireworks. His entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic, and vision left a lasting impact on his community and on the many people fortunate enough to work alongside him. Mark believed in hard work, taking chances, and building something meaningful, and his legacy can still be seen through the businesses and people he helped along the way. An accomplished Ironman, Mark participated in countless races throughout his life. His determination, perseverance, and discipline inspired those around him. Whether training for a race or facing challenges in everyday life, Mark approached every obstacle with strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to finishing what he started.

Yet of all his accomplishments, nothing brought Mark greater joy than his family. Among Mark’s greatest blessings was the love he shared with his wife, Michelle St. Pierre Garland. Their love story began in 2017, where their relationship quickly blossomed into an everlasting, love, built on laughter, adventure, friendship, and unconditional love. After several years together, they married and spent the following years creating a beautiful life filled with cherished memories, family gatherings, and countless adventures. Their love was evident to everyone who knew them.

Mark was, in every sense, an “As You Wish” man. Rather than responding with a simple yes, he would often answer with the phrase, “As you wish.” Those three words reflected the kindness, charm, and affection that defined him. It was a simple phrase, but one that perfectly captured the way he lived his life—always willing to help, always putting others first, and always showing love through both words and actions. His happiest moments were spent in what he considered the most magical place on earth—Disney World—surrounded by his beautiful wife, children, grandchildren, and loved ones. Those family trips became treasured traditions filled with laughter, adventure, and memories that will be cherished forever. While Mark found success in business and pride in athletic achievement, it was these moments with family that truly filled his heart.

Mark was known for his warm and loving smile, a smile that could light up a room and instantly make others feel at ease. It was impossible to ignore the joy he carried with him. His smile, his compassionate heart, and his genuine love for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Though he was strong-willed and determined, he always had a soft spot for his family and those he loved most.

More than anything, Mark will be remembered for the way he loved. He loved deeply, generously, and without hesitation. He celebrated the successes of others, offered support during difficult times, and made sure the people closest to him always knew how much they meant to him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, perseverance, generosity, and family.

Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy include his beloved wife, Michelle St. Pierre Garland; his children and their spouses Joshua & Jacyelyn Kimball, Katelyn Nicole Garland, Charli & Baylee Garland, and Zach & Jessica Drigan; and his cherished grandchildren, Aheries Luna, Miracle Luna, Dominic Martinez, Swayze Sanders, Harrison Drigan and Rexon Romos.

The love Mark gave so freely, the memories he created, and the example he set will remain a lasting gift to all whose lives he touched. His story will continue through the family he adored, the friendships he built, and the countless lives made better simply because Mark Garland was a part of them.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Until we meet again.