Mark V. Bastarache

LEOMINSTER – Mark V. Bastarache, 45 of Leominster died Friday, January 22, 2016 in Leominster. He was born in Gardner on October 30, 1970 the son of Sylvia S. Turcotte and the late Aldeo J. Bastarache. Mark grew up in Gardner and graduated from Gardner High School with the class of 1988. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Persian Gulf War. While in the Navy, Mark was awarded the following; National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. After his discharge from the Navy he attended Mount Wachusett Community College and earned his Associates Degree. He also attended Clark University where he earned a certificate in specialized computer programing. He worked for many years in the computer industry as a software developer. Mark enjoyed hiking and the outdoors. His goal was to hike every peak in the White Mountains and he was just a few shy of that feat. He also enjoyed skateboarding and surfing. He leaves two daughters, Taylor Bastarache and Veronica Bastarache of Princeton; his mother, Sylvia S. Turcotte of Gardner; a brother, Maurice Bastarache of Virginia Beach, VA., a sister, Carol Salminen of Gardner, a half sister, Aldea Rumery of Templeton; two nephews, Dillon Salminen and Tucker Salminen of Gardner, a niece, Morgan Bastarache of Virginia Beach, VA., a great niece, Mila Reyes of Virginia Beach, VA., a very special and close friend, Cicely Carter of Leominster, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2016 from 9 to 11 a.m. with a memorial service immediately following at the Mack Funeral Home, 91 Vernon St., Gardner. A burial service with military honors will follow at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon. Family and friends are welcome to a support and remembrance reception after the burial at the Gardner Knights of Columbus at 110 S. Main St, Gardner, MA 01440. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made towards a college fund for Taylor and Veronica, Mark’s beloved daughters. Donations can be made out to Kathleen Bastarache and mailed to PO Box 23 Princeton, MA 01541. To send an online condolence please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com. Mack Funeral Home 91 Vernon St., Gardner is directing arrangements.