Mark D. Stadler

CHESAPEAKE – Mark D. Stadler passed away on March 29, 2025.

He was born September 24,1944 in Norfolk, Va. and was the son of M.G. “Mike” and Jeanne G. Stadler, of blessed memory.

A hallmark of his disposition was his convivial nature, patience with students, and good humor. Mark loved folk and classical guitar music which he continued to play until the end of his life. One of the highlights of his early years was attending a summer session in Siena, Italy with the North Carolina School of the Arts and his teacher Jesus Silva.

Mark’s deep devotion to Judaism began even before age 13. His Bar Mitzvah gift was a trip to NYC to visit the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He has been affiliated with Temple Israel in Norfolk from its very inception and was active in its youth group and religious school. He lived his entire life as an observant Jew. This deep-rooted love was demonstrated in his many religious-based career positions including principal of the United Hebrew School in Tidewater, and 24 years with Congregation Beth El, Highland Park, Illinois, retiring as full-time ritual director. While there is no formal training to become a ritual director, one must be “synagogue savvy,” religiously observant, and know the important roles of the synagogue, including leading services and reading Torah.

Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Ellyn Chapel (Stephen); nephews Ian Chapel (Natasha) and Michael Chapel (Kelleigh), and niece Frani Chapel Heilman (Adrian), plus grand-nieces and nephews Victoria and Natalia Chapel, Alana, Serena and Marlin Heilman and Atrayu Polhemus and many Gladstone, Stadler, and Rubin cousins. He is also survived by his great aunt Margie S. Weinstein of Jacksonville, Fla.

Graveside services were conducted by Rabbi Michael Panitz at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mike & Jeanne Stadler Tzedakah fund of Temple Israel, Norfolk or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be made to the family at hdoliver.com.