In Loving Memory of Mark Nelligan

On May 14th, Mark Nelligan was called to heaven. He was a beloved husband, stepfather, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence brought laughter, kindness, and love to everyone around him. Mark dedicated 22 years of his life to serving his country in the United States Coast Guard. He proudly retired as the southernmost TT Chief, a title he carried with honor and pride. Through his service, Mark had the opportunity to travel the world, including Antarctica, South America, the Caribbean, Tazmania , and New Zealand, experiences that added to the countless stories he loved to share. Of all the places and assignments throughout his career, his favorite unit was ESU Miami, where he proudly worked for Commander Ben Stuart. And where he proudly wore his bubba teeth, alongside Devinny and Butler.

Throughout his years of service, Mark collected countless sea stories — many of which were said to be “99 percent truthful.” From tales of being mugged by Chilean schoolgirls to surviving lime Jell-O quesadillas, Mark always had a story and a joke ready to make those around him smile. Some of his jokes remain mysteries to this day, especially the one about the penguin and the typewriter. Mark loved traveling to the Florida Keys with his wife and dogs. The Keys were his favorite place on earth. He especially loved having breakfast at Pepe’s Cafe and joking about getting free Starbucks coffee for going to the “Gulf” twice — otherwise known as trips to the Keys. He also loved motorcycles, playing video games, and anything related to Wheaten Terriers. Mark’s love for his dogs, Abby and Winston, was something everyone around him knew well. He loved going around town with his wheatens and the honorary wheaten - Chloe (his Australian Shepard grand-dog). He often said he only wished he had an Irish Wolfhound to complete his pack. He was also known for making what many considered the best chicken wings in town, something family and friends always looked forward to. As a stepfather, no one could have asked for better. He loved Alessa deeply and never missed a chance to spoil her. Becoming “Grandpa” to his grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and he was already looking forward to teaching Axel how to fish.Mark was also a devoted son and brother who was always thinking about others, especially when it came to finding the perfect gift for those he loved. He adored his nieces and nephews and was proud of every one of them. He cherished his friendships and valued the people who stood beside him throughout his life. Mark was a proud Filipino. Today Mark has been reunited with his mother Nancy Nelligan in heaven.

Above all else, Mark’s world was his wife, Saymar. He was her best friend, protector, and caregiver during her illness. Though they were married for 16 years, Mark always counted their love story from the moment he reported to ESU Miami. Their best memory together was their trip to Ireland and having lunch at Mrs.Nelligans cafe. Mark leaves behind his loving wife, Saymar; stepdaughter Alessa Murphy and son-in-law Austin Murphy; beloved grandchildren Axel and Ashton Murphy; his father Nelson Nelligan; brothers and sisters-in-law Patrick and Lisa Nelligan, David and Leslie Nelligan, John Nelligan and Nina Nelligan; nieces and nephews Levi and Amy Nelligan, Kelly Nelligan, Leo and Christina Sustaita, Tiffany Reid, Tommy and Adriane Meisner, Rebecca Hinkle, Abreau Nelligan and their children. Mark was loved and respected by many, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Fair winds and following seas.

Rest in Peace Mark, we now have the watch.