Mark Anthony Chase

Mark Anthony Chase was born on September 17, 1961, and peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on October 3, 2025, at the age of 64, surrounded by loved ones at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

A native of Dayton, Ohio, Mark was a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, where he earned his Master of Science degree. His journey in higher education began at Central State University, where he met the love of his life, Annette, during their early college years. In 1982, Mark answered the call to serve and joined the United States Army, proudly dedicating six years to his country with assignments across the globe.

After completing his military service in 1988, Mark returned to Ohio and reunited with Annette. The two were married on September 7, 1991, in Dayton, and shared 34 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, faith, and family. Their greatest joy came in 1999 when they welcomed their beloved daughter, Kennedy Nicole Chase.

Mark continued to serve his country as a dedicated civil servant at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, working in Foreign Military Sales. His role allowed him to stay connected to his passion for travel and international service. During this time, he also completed his master’s degree at Central Michigan University.

Faith and community were cornerstones of Mark’s life. He was an active member of his church, where he began as a friendly greeter and grew into a trusted assistant teacher in the children’s ministry. He was especially passionate about mentoring young Black men. Through the “His Kids” program—Mark served as a bus driver and mentor, leading field trips and sharing the Word of God. He was also a proud member of the Unity Lodge #115 where he was raised a Master Mason on July 11, 1992.

Mark’s love for life was infectious. His laughter—warm, hearty, and unmistakable—will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He cherished time with his family and friends, supported his wife and daughter wholeheartedly, and embraced every opportunity to bring joy to those around him. A devoted “girl dad,” he took pride in standing by Kennedy and Annette in every endeavor, even pageantry.

Mark also had a deeply caring spirit, especially toward his father, Ernest Chase. He spent many hours at the nursing home ensuring his dad was comfortable and cared for, often bringing sweet treats not just for him, but to share with other residents as well. His generous heart and light-hearted nature made him a true blessing to everyone he met.

Mark is preceded in death by his loving mother Patricia Chase; stepmother Gervis Chase; grandparents John and Mary Chase, Hilda Reed, and Isaiah Kelley; siblings Ronald Chase and Algerine Harvey; and several cherished aunts, uncles, and his niece, Danielle McKnight.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness through his devoted wife, Annette Chase; his treasured daughter, Kennedy Chase; his father, Ernest Chase; and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church; 5301 Free Pike, Trotwood, OH 45426 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by a military honors ceremony at the Dayton National Cemetery from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM.

Mark’s life was a beautiful reflection of service, laughter, faith, and love—and his memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

In lieu of flowers, please help us honor Mark's life and help cover his ICU costs by contributing to his GoFundMe Fundraiser.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.