Obituary of Mark M. Richards

NORTH CREEK - Mark M. Richards, 57, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, friend, uncle, coach, teacher, and mentor in North Creek, NY, passed away unexpectedly at Albany Medical Center on August 26, 2024.

Mark was born on November 11, 1966, in Glens Falls, NY, to the late Brian and Marilyn (Donohue) Richards, bringing light and joy to the world. He spent his entire life in North Creek, graduating from Johnsburg Central School in 1985. Mark pursued higher education at Castleton College in Vermont, earning his degree in May 1990. That same year, he married his soulmate, Rhonda LaBounty, and together they recently celebrated 34 years of marriage. Mark also embarked on his career in education in 1990, teaching physical education at Wells Central School, where he dedicated 34 years. During this time, he earned his Master’s Degree from SUNY Plattsburgh. Mark was passionate about his work, particularly coaching soccer and baseball, and he cherished the relationships he built with his students and athletes. He retired in June of this year.

A man of great dedication, Mark served on the Johnsburg Central School Board for 18 years. His work ethic was unmatched, spending his summers painting and his winters coaching ski racing at Gore Mountain for over 30 years through NYSEF. He was known to be the first on the mountain during ski season, eager to carve the first tracks in the fresh powder. Mark was always active, taking daily five-mile walks with his wife, enjoying travel, and especially looking forward to trips to Disney, where reuniting with Minnie Mouse was a favorite tradition. Christmas held a special place in his heart and was his favorite holiday.

Mark’s life was defined by his care for others. He was known for his trust in people, his deep capacity to love, and his commitment to fairness. A perfectionist at heart, Mark approached everything with meticulous care and hard work, living by his motto, “If you’re going to do something, then do it right.” His greatest joy came from his time spent with his wife and son, whom he adored above all else.

Mark was predeceased by his loving parents, Brian and Marilyn Richards. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Rhonda Richards, and his son, Ben Richards, along with his wife Cassie and their son, Finn. He is also survived by his brothers, Brian (Brandy) Richards of North Creek, NY, and Jack (Ree) Richards of Warrensburg, NY; his sisters-in-law Julie (Frank) Dower of North Creek, NY, and Shelly (Martin) Johnson of Orlando, FL; his brother-in-law Glynn and partner Tanya of North Creek, NY; his nieces and nephews, Nolan, Laura, Matthew, Lindsey, J.T., Nick, Lynsey, Matt, Kyle, and Kara; and his dear friends Mary Alexander, Mike Sharp, Nancy and Rich Herrmann, along with his two beloved cats, Peanut and Popcorn.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mark’s name can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.stjude.org.

Friends may call on Mark’s family from 3 pm to 7 pm on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg, NY. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 7 pm. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences, a guest book, and directions.