Forest Mark Duckett

Forest Mark Duckett
“Mark” | “Pop-Pop” | “Grandpa”
Gansevoort, NY
July 19, 1959 – May 29, 2025

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Forest Mark Duckett, known affectionately to many as Mark, and lovingly as Pop-Pop and Grandpa Mark to his grandchildren. He passed away on May 29, 2025, at the age of 65, after a long illness that recently took a sudden and unexpected turn.

A lifelong resident of Gansevoort, NY, Mark’s life was defined by hard work, unwavering devotion to family, and a heart that touched everyone he met. He was the beloved husband of Nancy Duckett, his partner and best friend of nearly 42 years. Together, they raised four children: Anthony Duckett (Jenna), Ashley Siepman (Steve), Bryant Duckett (Courtney), and Brooke Glasheen (Sean). He was the proud Pop-Pop to Brayden, Austin, Hayden, Evelyn, Harrison, Boden, and Emmett—his greatest joy and the center of his world. Mark was also a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Mark was the adored son of Francis and Alsina Duckett, who survive him, and the cherished brother of Tina Coons (Kenny), Michelle Winch (Rob), and Nadine Jones (Dick). He also leaves behind his loyal pup Moose and a few beloved “fur baby” cats.

A true self-starter, Mark worked nights in a mill while launching his own excavating business—A & A Excavation—which he ran with grit and pride for 37 years. His work ethic never wavered, even as his health declined. Through it all, he remained the most dedicated and loving husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather anyone could hope for.

He loved the outdoors—hunting with his sons in their “favorite spots,” sitting by a campfire with a cold beer in hand, hiking with his kids, and feeding animals by the Hudson River. He especially looked forward to family trips to the ocean in Maine and Key West, and dreamed of taking his grandchildren to Disney World—one of his happiest places.

Rick Conlee, his brother by choice, was his constant sidekick—whether they were out hunting, fishing, or just getting into harmless trouble, the two were inseparable and full of stories.

Mark brought laughter wherever he went. He was wonderfully gullible and easy to lovingly tease, which made for countless gut-wrenching laughs and playful family moments we’ll treasure forever. Whether it was a running joke, a random meme, or one of his famously offbeat gifts, Mark gave joy as freely as he gave his love.

He had a unique sense of humor and a famously “random” style of gift-giving—often prompting Nancy to declare, “I am not responsible for this gift!” His thoughtfulness, however quirky, was always from the heart. He showed up in the small ways too—dropping off coffee, snacks, and meals to his kids when they were working or just because. He loved his mornings at Stewart’s with friends, texting his kids when he was bored, and making strangers feel like friends—whether they were longtime customers or someone standing behind him in line at the grocery store.

Mark was a “second dad” to many—someone who could be counted on to show up, check in, and care deeply. His presence, his laughter, and his love leave an unfillable space in our lives.

Details of a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mark by sharing a story, raising a toast, or offering a random gift—gaudy or not—to someone you love. Make it heartfelt. Just like Mark.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.