Mark S. Benetsky

Mark Benetsky, of Bethlehem, PA, passed away on February 19, 2024 in Arlington, Virginia surrounded by loved ones. Born in Northampton, PA, he was the son of the late Michael and Helen (Truchan) Benetsky. He was husband to the late Roxanne (Vowinkel) Benetsky for 35 years.

Mark served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and was a combat veteran of the Vietnam War. After his tour in Vietnam, he served his community in various capacities, namely as a life member of the VFW Post #4714 and was Post Commander from 1972-1973. He was a member of the Catholic War Vets Post #454 for 45 years. Mark’s greatest contribution in life was to youth athletics in the Lehigh Valley, particularly through coaching softball and baseball. He managed his daughter’s fastpitch softball teams for over 10 years and coached them to several state championships and placed fourth in the world in the Little League Softball World Series. In 2007, he retired from coaching softball and began volunteering with Liberty High School’s baseball team, which became one of his greatest joys. He loved teaching kids many of life’s lessons through softball and baseball and appreciated everything they taught him in return.

Mark will be deeply missed by his daughter, Megan Benetsky (Evan Brassell); his two granddaughters, Rosalind and Lorelai; his sister, Ellen Thomas (Buck Betz); many cousins, nieces, nephews, and his beloved dog, Ivy.

To honor Mark, a memorial baseball game will be held on Monday, April 8th between Liberty and Easton at Liberty High School (1115 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018), with a remembrance beginning at 4:00 pm. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Northampton Area High School Booster Club.