Mark J. Whetstone
October 28, 1956 – December 8, 2023
Mark John Whetstone (Durkin)
He is survived by his wife, Karil Whetstone (Mobley); children & grandchildren: Shannon (Aaron), Kerry, Jessica, Joshua (Lauren), Christiaan, Mackenzie, Kaley, Avery, Hunter, Juliet, Charlotte; siblings: Charles L Durkin, Lori Carr, Kathy Browning, Kevin Whetstone.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles V Durkin, Marguerite Whetstone (Doyle/Durkin).
Mark was born in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to Charles Durkin and Marguerite Doyle. His family moved and found their way to Omaha, NE, where he graduated from Papillion High School. Omaha was also where he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Karil. They were married on December 5, 1981.
At the age of 19, Mark enlisted in the United States Air Force and served for 17 years. During his military career, he was stationed in Guam, England, North Dakota, Texas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Mark started his career as a Security Police Supervisor before transitioning to a Military Training Instructor at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He was also a Base Career Advisor. By the end of his military career, he earned the rank of Master Sargent and was First Sargent of a Field Maintenance Squadron (ACC) at Ellsworth Air Force base in Rapid City, South Dakota. Mark also served as President and Vice -President of AFSA (Air Force Sargent’s Association) in the Offutt and Ellsworth chapters.
In his military career, he received several medals and awards. He was awarded the: Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters. He actively served in support for Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Mark was also an expert marksman.
After his retirement from the Air Force, Mark started his second career with Homeland Security. He was an Immigration Adjudication officer and Union President. He continued with Homeland Security for 17 years.
In between his Air Force and Homeland Security careers, he was one of the founding owners of Cornhusker Cab Company.
Mark was a huge history buff. He could always be found watching movies/television or reading about history, wars, or major historical events. He was particularly partial to anything related to World War II. Mark spent his second retirement watching movies/television with Karil, selling things on eBay, researching genealogy, and cuddling with their dog, Duffy. Fun Fact: In 1980, he participated in the World Pea Shooting Championship and placed 2nd.
Mark was a devout Catholic and spent many days at St. Joan of Arc church participating in Adoration. He attended several retreats with the church.
VISITATION: Monday, December 18, 2023, 10:00 a.m., St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3122 S. 74 St., ROSARY: 10:30 a.m.,
MASS OF CHRISITIAN BURIAL: 11:00 a.m. INTERMENT: Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road.
Memorials will be directed by the Family.
To view a live Broadcast of the Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “LiveCast” button at top of the home page.
15 Comments
Allan and I are so very sorry for the loss of your Father. He must have been an interesting man to share your life with. We send our love to all of you. May he rest in peace and feel the love he is surrounded by. Love, Sally and Allan Kramer
Sorry for your loss
I had the privilege of working with Mark at the Nebraska Service Center. I am so sorry for your loss.
Our deepest condolences to the Whetstone family. May he rest in peace.
Lori, Kathy and family, so sorry to hear about your loss. Thoughts and prayers for you and yours.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I worked with Mark at NSC. He was a great person to work with.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I knew Mark from my time at the Nebraska Service Center and worked closely with him on many personnel issues. He was extremely passionate in his representation of the union membership. I considered him a good friend.
Mark left a huge impression and lasting legacy on our Union and members. He is remembered as a fierce advocate. He will be missed. We send out our deepest sympathies and condolences to his many friends, family, and loved ones.
So sorry for your family’s loss- prayer to you all.
I knew Mark Whetstone when I was in the Air Force in November 1985, going through Basic Training. He was my Technical Instructor (TI). At the time I was 19 y/o, did not believe in myself, no self esteem and lacked confidence, Mark Whetstone (TSGT Whetstone) was the first male figure in my life to breath hop into me. His training techniques transformed my life. I will always feel indebted to him for his leadership in my life. For the family and friends who knew and loved him, please accept my sincerest condolences. I pray that the God of refuge will comfort, strengthen and guide you through your of grief and recovery. God bless. (Psalm 46:1-3)
May comfort the entire family and friends (Psalm 46: 1-3)
My deepest condolences to Mark’s family and close friends.
Louis Werdebach, Retired Defense Department Executive and former Air Force NCO
Mark was my TI in October 84, he left a lasting impression on me, as I am sure he did on many others, My sincere condolences to his family. God bless you.
May the good Lord ease the pain of his family and friends . Words can’t express how much of a positive impact this man had on my life. May you rest in peace good sir..
Mark was my TI in 1984 after I came over to the Air Force from the Marines. He really helped me with the transition over and was an amazing role model for me. I am so sorry for your loss and am so thankful for all he did for others during his life.
Sign Guestbook