Mark was a devoted husband, dad, “Poppie”, and coach. He possessed a larger-than-life personality with a huge heart, undeniable charm, and a sense of humor that could light up any room. Mark’s love for his family, his community, and the sport of baseball was unmatched. He cherished his daily walks on the Frisco Trail with his loyal dog, Bri, by his side. Mark’s kindness, wisdom, and humor will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on through his family, friends, and the players whose lives he impacted.
Mark spent much of his life coaching baseball, building a remarkable legacy. He retired with 1,019 career wins, 5 national tournament appearances, 7 regional championships, and had the honor of seeing 11 of his former players drafted into Major League Baseball. His dedication to the sport and to his players was evident in the countless lives he touched both on and off the field.
Mark is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Cindy Pollard; sons Matt Pollard and wife Jeana, Brooks Pollard and wife Jesse, and Taylor Pollard and wife Staci; grandchildren Paley, Paven, Pacie, Praise, Eliza, Milly, Paran, Abel, and Pearly; sisters Jan Coffman and Jeri Mitchell and husband Tracy; as well as a host of friends, former players, and loved ones.
A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the Hamilton Auditorium at Carl Albert State College in Poteau, Oklahoma, with Kerry Shuck, Matt Pollard, Brooks Pollard, and Taylor Pollard officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Evans & Miller Funeral Home.
The Starting Lineup for Mark’s service will include Jerry Holton, Pierre Guillet, Mike Metheny, Mike McBrayer, Bill Sanmiller, and Jeff Jensen.
The Bullpen will be made up of former Trojan and Viking players.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Carl Albert State College Baseball Program.
Online condolences may be shared at www.evansandmillerfuneralhome.com
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