Mark G. Flanders

Mark George Flanders, a resident of Detroit, passed away on Friday, November 24, 2023, at the age of 72. A son of Ralph and Anne Flanders, he was born on April 24, 1951 in Montpelier, Vermont. Mark began his higher education as a theater major at the University of Vermont, but ultimately earned his Associate's Degree in Nursing from Northampton County Community College. He was enrolled in the BSN program through Wayne State University. Mark was a charge nurse in the critical care cardiothoracic surgery unit during the pioneering age of heart transplant surgery. He gave new life to patients as an employee of Corewell Health- Dearborn (formerly Oakwood) and Harper University Hospital. Mark's passion for the theater led him to his constant loyal companion, Roger Loeb. They exchanged vows in a civil ceremony in 2007, and proclaimed their love through marriage on August 2013 in Montpelier, Vermont. Together they shared years of laughter, unconditional support, and the occasional anchovy pizza. An aspiring actor, Mark took the stage in dramas, comedies, and musicals such as My Fair Lady. Mark was a bold, confident vocalist both in church choirs and several theater companies. He was a gifted linguist who studied French with a tutor and found a competitive edge learning Spanish with DuoLingo. Mark was a fanatical Pistons fan through championships and rebuilding years, and enjoyed all things Harry Potter. His greatest pride was his rose garden. Christmastime held a special place in Mark's heart- there was no such thing as too many Christmas lights. Mark captivated friends new and old with his storytelling and charisma- he was a hard man to forget. Despite years of health challenges, Mark was steadfast in his optimism. He spent his life showing generosity, forgiveness, and warmth to all who knew him. Beloved husband of Roger. Doting owner of precious rescue dogs Odin, the late Bunny, and the late Riley James. Dear brother of Jon (Nancy), the late Timothy, Naomi, Deborah (Tim), Elizabeth "Goussie" (Richard), Eunice (Wayne), Lois "Lolo," and James "Jamie." Cherished uncle of Rhys, Daryl, Neil, Esther, Isaac, Mary Clare, and Brittany. Treasured friend of The Three Markscateers: Kathy Larkins, Bobbi Bergmooser, and Robin Monterosso. Friends and family will gather on Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 2:00 pm until time of memorial service at 3:00 pm at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors-Royal Oak, 705 W. Eleven Mile Road. Mark will be laid to rest at The Preserve at All Saints Cemetery in Waterford Township, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Transportation Riders United, PO Box 2668, Detroit, MI 48202 or online at www.detroittransit.org. Mark firmly believed in accessible mass transit and lobbied in Lansing for its expansion. Please share a memory at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Mark G. Flanders

April 24, 1951 - November 24, 2023