Dr. Mark M Bills, DMD

Dr. Mark M Bills, DMD (78) of Venice, FL passed away July 9, 2024, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Sandie Boykin, stepchildren Paige Balsinger (Todd), Brian Boykin (Kathy) and five grandchildren Brady, Kate, Devin, Bryce, Logan and eight great-grandchildren. Preceding him in peace are his mother, father and beloved Golden Retrievers. Mark Bills was born in Flint Michigan on July 6, 1946, and grew up in Peoria, IL. Growing up Mark was a talented football player and scholar along with hobbies that included hunting and fishing. He won many awards including the Peoria High School football hall of fame. Mark Bills was a true American hero! He served as a Captain in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His credentials were Airborne, Ranger, Pathfinder and Special Forces Officer. He led an intelligence team deep behind enemy lines on 22 surveillance missions. Most of his service in Vietnam was highly classified and he didn’t receive recognition until decades later. In 2001 a Venice Gondolier senior writer wrote “John Rambo has nothing on Mark Bills” after an interview about an award, although to meet him you would have never known. Mark’s military commendations include: Silver Star, Bronze Star with Valor with OLC “Oak Leaf Cluster”, Army Commendation Medal with OLC, Purple Heart with OLC, Advanced Marksman, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Silver Star, Senior Parachute Badge and Vietnam Service Jump Wings. He was a lifetime member of the Military Officers Association of America. His unit was also awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy. After his service to our Country Mark went back to college and received his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. “Doc Bills” had a dental practice in Venice Florida for 40 years. If there was one thing that was evident about Mark was that he loved Venice! He was a leader in our community and very involved as a member of Venice Nokomis Rotary, American Legion, VFW, Quiet Birds (QBs), founder and volunteer dentist at the Senior Friendship clinic and a long-standing member and Past Commodore of the Venice Yacht Club which led to involvement in the International Association of the Blue Gavel. You might have even heard him announcing horse shows at the Sherriff’s Equestrian Association or caught him watching a hockey game at the Venice Ice Rink. Mark’s passion for life was larger than his personality. He remained a dedicated marksman and self-defense advocate believing in peace through superior fire power, something he passed on to his children. Mark loved to travel with his wife, family and friends whether it was scuba diving, snow skiing, hiking or just exploring. Mark and Sandie owned a boat for many years to enjoy our slice of paradise. His other passion was flying as he was an avid pilot with their favorite destination being Cat Island in the Bahamas. Patriot, steward of the community, husband, father and friend are just a few things that describe Mark Bills. He will be missed by many. To honor Mark’s memory a service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery on August 6, 2024, at promptly 12:30 in the afternoon. Immediately following the graveside service will be a Celebration of Life at the Venice Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Disabled American Veterans (dav.org) in Mark’s name.

Tributes

Dr. Mark M Bills, DMD

July 6, 1946 - July 9, 2024