On December 7, 2004, United States Army Captain Mark Norman Stubenhofer passed away while serving in Iraq.
Stubenhofer was born and raised in Springfield, Virginia to a good and loving family. He had two brothers and two sisters and his favorite times spent with his family were while vacationing in Disney World. Later in his childhood, Stubenhofer enjoyed playing soccer and baseball. His father coached his baseball team, making it very fun and memorable. Stubenhofer and his future wife, Patty, met at Clemson University, where he was a Political Science major and was part of the ROTC program.
Always wanting to help others and having a great interest in politics and leadership, Stubenhofer decided to join the U.S. Army and was commissioned on May 9, 1996. He loved being a part of a unit and being a leader that his men could trust and depend on. He was also very proud to be an American and believed in what he was fighting for: Freedom for all. Early in his career, Stubenhofer became a certified Army Ranger and Jump Master. In 2003, he was awarded a Bronze Star during his first of two Iraq tours. He was promoted to Company Commander, as he had the love and respect of all of his soldiers and colleagues. He also earned many other awards and decorations, including a Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2) Ranger Tab, Senior Parachutist Badge, a second Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart.
Currently, Patty lives with their three children, Lauren, Justin, and Hope. Hope was born while Stubenhofer was on his last deployment and he was unfortunately never able to meet her. Patty is most excited to see what the future holds for her children, watching them grow into adults and seeing them make their own dreams come true as they enter college, build careers for themselves, and get married. Patty would like others to know that Stubenhofer was a very selfless person and always wanted what was best for everyone else. He was kind and compassionate. His love for his family is what keeps them going after his passing.
United States Army Captain Mark Norman Stubenhofer is survived by his wife, Patty and his three children, Lauren, Justin, and Hope.