John Mark Hartley

John Mark Hartley, 64, of Rochester, Massachusetts, passed away unexpectedly on September 28, 2026, while at work in Brookfield, Massachusetts. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Born May 21, 1962, Mark was the oldest of four children born to Meryden Kirby and John “Jack” Harold Hartley. A lifelong resident of Rochester, Mark was well known and loved throughout the Tri-Town community.

An industrious self-starter, Mark began working Saturdays at The Lionberger’s Farm at the early age of 12. He worked part-time for his grandfather at Geo. Kirby Jr. Kirby Paint Co. throughout high school and college, and he worked on the cranberry bogs for A.D. Makepeace Co. as a foreman for many years.

In 1984, Mark graduated from Springfield College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. His love of the outdoors and curiosity about nature remained lifelong constants, even as his career shifted to trucking. He drove for AGAR Supply Co. and Precision Motor Transport Group before joining Intercity Lines in 2018, where he transported high-end automobiles throughout New England and New York. Mark was generous with his knowledge and time, and he was highly respected by his coworkers. He could often be heard singing along to music in his truck, and he especially appreciated returning from his time on the road to a good home-cooked meal.

Mark was happiest outdoors, especially at joyful family gatherings at Snows Pond. His best days at the pond began with sunrise at the Hartley Cottage and included canoeing, swimming, and teaching many of us how to fish, and ended with evenings singing around the campfire. Mark was a wonderful host, always ready with a story, a thoughtful question, or a breakfast plate of his famous pancakes—reserving one for himself as the pancake tax.

An avid reader and crossword-puzzle enthusiast, he could beat almost anyone at Scrabble. He also enjoyed horseshoes, ping-pong, pool, bowling, baseball, and softball, playing in local leagues for many years under the nickname “Lumber” and forging lasting friendships along the way.

A deliberate thinker and creative spirit, Mark enjoyed wood carving, drawing, painting, and building river boats. Riverboat racing held a special place in his heart. He and his racing partner, Dana Barrows, would start training for the Memorial Day race as early as January, placing many times over the years, and finally capturing first place in 1988.

Mark was a student of the Bible and loved the Lord Jesus Christ. He sought to live with patience, love, forgiveness, kindness, and generosity. He gave freely of his time and knowledge and supported causes he believed were worthy.

Mark will be remembered for his energy and humor, for his great laugh and individual sense of style, for his generosity, love of family and friends, and deep appreciation for the outdoors. He leaves behind his five children, Salem, Levi, Celeste, Ari, and stepdaughter Heather Bryant; mother, Meryden Kirby; siblings, Shawn-Ann, Dana-Lyn and her husband Lon, Matthew, Nicole and her partner Justin, and their families; nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and many dear friends and coworkers.

Mark will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing in his life.

Services

Visitation will be held Friday, October 16, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Saunders-Dwyer Funeral Home in Mattapoisett.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 17, at 2:30 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Rochester, followed by a graveside service at Sherman Cemetery on Pine Street, Rochester, across from Rochester Memorial School.

All are invited to the Fellowship Hall at the First Congregational Church following the graveside service for a Celebration of Life and dinner reception.