It is with profound sadness that the family of Mark Gildea announces his sudden passing on January 25, 2021. Mark was an adored husband, father and grandfather who was universally loved and admired by all who knew him.
Mark started his life in Bridgeport, CT, the son of Laurie (Mangan) and Mark G. Gildea. Mark excelled in sports, especially basketball from his earliest days at St. Peter School. He went on to play basketball at Notre Dame Bridgeport, where he played center during the now famous 1972 Notre Dame versus Kolbe Cathedral match up. Notre Dame emerged victorious in the game that is still considered by many as the greatest game ever played in these parts.
Mark was a loving husband to his beautiful wife, Dawn Holloway of 44 years and adoring father to his children Mark, Gregory, Patrick (Shannon), Luke (Ashley) and Bianca. He loved nothing better than to coach, spend time with and cheer on his children.
Mark will be missed by his siblings, who he was so close to. Laurie (Bill) St John, Bill (Donna Wetmore) Gildea, Mary McCarthy, James (Erin) Gildea and John (Maria) Gildea will all miss his humor and singing. He will also be missed by his wife’s siblings especially LaRonya Lee whom he was very close to. Mark also leaves his Brannelly and Mangan cousins that he loved dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents, Brother-in-Law, Dick McCarthy, nephew, Philip Gildea and Mother-in Law, Ruby Holloway.
Perhaps Mark’s favorite job was as “Pop” to Mark Andrew, Elias, Aria, Avianna, Luke Jameson, and Lyanna. He adored all of them and looked forward to every second that he got to spend with his grandchildren. His grandchildren loved, and will always love their Pop with all of their hearts.
Mark taught and coached his entire adult life and was forever proud of his Windham Whippets in wins or loses. Through his teaching at Windham High School and acting as a basketball coach for many years, Mark was a pillar to his community. He touched many lives, and was not only a coach, teacher, mentor, role model, but a father figure to many. His presence, kindness, and competitiveness will be missed by the Willimantic community, which has truly lost a legend.
Mark had a keen interest in US History and made sure to never miss his favorite TV show, Jeopardy. He always had a smile on his face and his wonderful humor and words of wisdom will be truly missed. His wit was unprecedented and his one-liners were classic testaments to his charming personality. Mark’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, and he will forever be loved and missed.
Mark’s family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, January 31, 2021 from 2:00 to 4:00pm at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. Willimantic, CT 06226.
His funeral service and burial will be private. If you wish to send flowers, please send to Potter Funeral Home. Memorial donations can also be made to the Mark A. Gildea Memorial Scholarship Fund by clicking the link below:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/mark-a-gildea-memorial-scholarship-fund?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1
To sign an online guestbook visit www.potterfuneralhome.com
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Mark Andrew Gildea, please visit our floral store.