Mark Stansell

Mark left this world, hand in hand, with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, July 26, 2016 in Las Cruces, NM at the age of 60. Mark was an only child, born to O.C. "Pete" and Marie Stansell on October 31, 1955 in Clovis, NM.

Mark was a tender and big hearted man. He truly would do anything to help someone. He loved his family fiercely and with everything in him. He had a huge impact on the lives of those he loved as well as many lives in the community.

Mark was a man of many talents and even more hobbies. Starting at a young age, Mark was a gifted salesman and entrepreneur. His hobbies often became a business and included electronics, magnetic signs, trophies and awards, engraving and woodworking, cooking and rubber stamps. For over 20 years Mark and Cynthia owned and operated Cruces Trophy and Awards Center in Las Cruces, NM. The remainder of his career was invested in making and selling custom rubber stamps. He and Cynthia travelled from place to place for their family business, Stamp A Mania, and truly enjoyed seeing the country together. Many times the family would join them on their travels. He also enjoyed fishing, golfing, model trains, leatherworking and was an avid collector.

Mark had a natural talent in the kitchen and absolutely enjoyed cooking for his family and friends. In addition to running a steakhouse for over 6 years, he cooked for many community events. He was the head cook at First Baptist Church of Ruidoso and was in charge of preparing the Wednesday night meals and special events. Mark made cooking for large groups of people on a tight budget look easy. His wife Cynthia worked with him side by side and with a small crew of church volunteers they made sure no one went hungry. His famous "Popo-Burger" (his affectionate nickname "Popo" given to him by his grandchildren), his signature burger, was often served at community events.
Another of Mark's passions was woodworking. He appreciated the beauty of wood and enjoyed creating gifts for his family and friends. From turning pens to fine furniture Mark loved woodworking and passed that love on to his children and grandchildren, teaching them patiently.

Mark had countless friends and never met a stranger. His heart was kind and open, taking every opportunity to meet someone new. This tender and loving spirit came from his love for God. Mark took time to become a disciple for the Lord and studied his Word. This love for God manifested itself in his life completely and the fruits of his love for others were evident. Mark embodied the scripture of 1 John 4:7, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God." He was generous with his time, talent, and treasures making his priorities God, family, and friends.

Even in his last days, Mark's faith in his savior was a testimony to all. Hebrews 10:23 demonstrated this faith, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."

Mark is survived by his wife Cynthia Stansell of Ruidoso, NM; daughter Shannon Anderson and her husband Brian, and their children Carson, Morgan and Jaiden, of Las Cruces, NM; son Timothy Stansell and his wife Shauna, and their children Simon, Eli, Kyla and Shiloh, of Phoenix, AZ; daughter Kerry Lang and her husband Chris, and their children Sadie and Levi, of Las Cruces, NM; his in-laws Barbara and Dave Bodner, Joe and Dana Bolin, Terri and Brian Weber; and eight nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents O.C. "Pete" and Marie Stansell.

Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church of Ruidoso on Saturday July 30, 2016 from 2pm to 5pm. The funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Ruidoso on Sunday July 31, 2016 at 4pm.

Visitation

First Baptist Church
270 Country Club Dr
Ruidoso, NM  88345
Saturday, July 30, 2016
2:00 to 5:00 pm

Service

Funeral Service

First Baptist Church
270 Country Club Dr
Ruidoso, NM  88345
Sunday, July 31, 2016
4:00 pm

Cemetery

Gavilan Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Gavilan Canyon Road
Ruidoso, NM  88345