Obituary

Mark Steven Dobies (April 3, 1959 – March 11, 2025)

Mark Steven Dobies, of Scotch Plains, NJ, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 65. A loving father, accomplished athlete, and talented actor, Mark lived a life full of passion, perseverance, and love.

Born on April 3, 1959, Mark’s athletic talents earned him a football scholarship to Delaware Valley University (then Delaware Valley College), where he and his team brought the school their first Middle Atlantic Conference football championship in 1980. Mark wore number 11 and played free safety, scoring two defensive touchdowns in his collegiate career. His love for sports extended beyond the field as well; he was an avid athlete who competed in several triathlons and found joy in helping others reach their fitness goals, offering personal training to anyone in need of it.

Mark also had a remarkable career in the arts, appearing in numerous movies, television shows, and theater productions. On screen, he starred as Noah Chase in the CBS soap opera "Guiding Light," and Daniel Colson in the ABC soap opera One "Life to Live." On stage, he played Bruce Niles in the 2004 off-Broadway revival of Larry Kramer’s "The Normal Heart" at The Public Theater. His presence on screen and stage reflected his dedication and talent as a performer.

Despite his many accomplishments, Mark’s greatest love was his family. He was a loving father to his three children, Francesca (27), Olivia (24), and Robert (21), who were the center of his universe. He is also survived by his mother, Suzanne, his brother, Paul, and his sister, Sandy.

A passionate Philadelphia Eagles fan, Mark carried his love for the team throughout his life, celebrating every win and enduring every loss, no matter how emotionally distressing. Sharing the Eagles first Super Bowl victory with his son seven years ago was one of the fondest moments in both of their lives, and also happens to be the only time Robert saw his father cry. Mark’s family rejoices in the fact that he got to see his beloved Birds trounce their way to another decisive Super Bowl victory before he passed away.

Mark’s warmth, generosity, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he gave so freely. May he fly high like his Birds off to heaven.

A Memorial gathering will be held at Memorial Funeral Home on Saturday, May 17th, 2025 from 2pm to 5pm with a short service to follow at 4:30pm

Memorial Funeral Home Address:

155 South Ave. Fanwood NJ 07023