Mark David Hodge, 59, of McDowell, Virginia, passed away Saturday, December 4, 2021 while escorting a Boy Scout troop through Butler Cave in Williamsville.

He transitioned from the depths of the earth while doing the thing he loved most in this world, exploring the soil and soul beneath his feet and sharing his passion for caving with young folk and old.

Mark was born November 28, 1962 in Munich, Germany, a son of David Loyal Hodge of Orlando, Fla. and the late Barbara Ann Schneider.

Mark served in the United States Air Force as a Russian Cryptolinguist from 1980 until 2011 when he retired with a rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He served tours in Berlin, Frankfurt, Okinawa, and England.

In addition to his father, Mark is survived by his wife, Elizabeth "Liz" DeVenny of McDowell; and step-son, Trey Lawhorn of Staunton.

In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his brother, Keith Hodge.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Butler Cave Conservation Society, 465 Karst Ridge Drive, Williamsville, Va. 24487 or with PayPal through butlercave.org.

The Obaugh Funeral Home handled the arrangements.