Mark Finucane set sail on his final voyage on October 24, 2025, surrounded by his wife and three daughters. A sailor at heart and a storyteller by nature, he lived his life like the sea: fierce, steadfast, and always full of adventure.

Born in Chester, PA, Mark's childhood was punctuated by afternoons on the basketball court and summers at the Brookhaven swim club. His wry sense of humor made him a favorite among many, and occasionally got him into trouble. Through his insatiable curiosity, he became a true Renaissance man; a lover of history, sports, music, food, travel, and culture. He was as likely to be found shaking his fist at a Phillies game as he was to be found salsa dancing in Puerto Rico, sipping a Guinness in Ireland, or hunting for the perfect beach with his wife of 44 years, Mary Ellen.

A merchant seaman, Mark spent his career at sea, starting on oil tankers, where he met Mary Ellen, before becoming a Chief Engineer on ocean towing tugboats. He ran his engine room with pride and precision, overseeing the engine, generators, and pumps, ensuring that every system operated flawlessly. He brought that same approach to every home repair project, in his home and in the homes of his daughters, delighted to receive a phone call saying, "I need to speak to the Chief."

An Irish citizen, Mark was deeply connected to his family and his heritage, and returned to the homeland often.

In addition to his wife, Mary Ellen, Mark leaves behind three daughters, Erin, Bryn, and Keely, who inherited his love of the sea, his stubborn streak, and his love of sweets. His legacy will also live on through his five beautiful grandchildren, and one on the way.

Mark's life will be celebrated as he requested with a private Celebration of Life organized by his family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his name to the Cystinosis Research Foundation .

Family and friends may share condolences through the guestbook link on this memorial page, where a candle also may be lit in Mark's memory.