Mark Anthony Smolka, Jr.

Mark Anthony Smolka, Jr., 37, a resident of Fort Myers, FL since 2010, formerly of Wilmington, DE, passed away Sunday, August 30, 2020 in Fort Myers. He was born February 9, 1983 in Wilmington, DE.

Mark attended Pope John XXII Catholic Church in Fort Myers. He was an alter server at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church where he also attended 8 years of school. He played soccer and baseball for the CYO league and also for West Wilmington Optimist little league where he played catcher opposite his brother and best friend, Brian, who was the pitcher.

He went to McKean High School. Markie also continued his education at the local 626 carpenter’s union to become an apprentice carpenter. Shortly after he was treated for an injury, which was the beginning of his struggles with prescription drugs.

His dream of being a father began when he was a child, when he became the protective big brother of his two sisters, Angelina and Juliana, whom he loved looking after. He was blessed with an amazing son, Anthony, and a perfect daughter, Maryland. When he was able to be with them, Mark was a wonderful father to them both. He loved teaching them to fish and swim. Mark was happiest by the water, the beach, the pool, a pond, or even a canal. In Florida he was intrigued with native plants, orchids and bromeliads. He loved lighting off fireworks for any occasion.

Some of his most favorite times were just being with family, especially his little brother Vito, who he referred to as "Gott".

Mark played many roles in his life such as son, brother, nephew, grandson, cousin, father, and significant other. All will always tell you; his heart was bigger than life. His soul beamed through his eyes. His smile drew you in and, his kindness was like no other.

Markie loved to help others, neighbors, friends, family and strangers. He had many friends, starting as a child in Alban Park who we are so grateful to, for continuing to keep in touch with all of us.

 Although there were many years our whole family suffered due to his battles with "The Beast" (addiction) we feel blessed to have shared in his life, both ups and downs, but, the good in him will always outshine that "Beast" and, we are never going to let it beat us, because Mark's soul has been united with our Lord who always knew his truth.

 So to all who knew and loved Markie, he would say "Keep your chin up." STRENGTH

He is survived by his loving parents, Mark and Angela Smolka of Fort Myers; two loving children, Maryland Smolka of Lewes, DE and Anthony Smolka of Wilmington, DE; as well as four siblings, Angelina Krietzman (Eric) of Orlando, FL, Julianna McMahon (Amanda) of Punta Gorda, FL, Brian Smolka (Jackie) of Bradenton, FL, and Vito Smolka of Fort Myers.

Private family services will be held.

Memorial Contributions in memory of Mark Anthony Smolka, Jr. are suggested to Charlotte Behavioral Healthcare, 1700 Education Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fort Myers, is entrusted with final care.