Mark J. Dieterle

Mark J. Dieterle, aged 74, of New London, CT,  formerly of Groton, CT and Harper Woods, MI, died peacefully on Thursday, February 6, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. 

Mark was born in Detroit on December 10, 1950 to the late Walter and Lorraine (Jacyno) Dieterle. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1973 and proudly served in the United States Army with the First Armored Division as a tank commander, reaching the rank of Captain and serving a tour of duty in Korea. After ten years of military service, he began a long and successful career in information technology, most notably with General Dynamics and Computer Sciences Corporation. In 2018 he retired to northern Michigan, where he enjoyed a quiet life on Black Lake until 2023, when he returned to Connecticut to be near family. 

Mark is survived by his wife, Lynette Behrens and their children, Brianna Behrens (Barton Crossman) and Jack Behrens, all of New London, CT. He is also survived by his former wife, Elaine Dieterle of Chesterfield, MI and their sons, Jeffrey Dieterle of Clay, MI and Brian Dieterle (Dana) of Athens, OH. In addition, he leaves three grandchildren to cherish his memory, Henry Dieterle, Penelope Crossman, and Theodore Crossman. Mark’s brother Kurt Dieterle (Carol) of Greensboro, GA survived him by two days, joining him on February 8, 2025. 

Our family wishes to thank the staff at Atria in Waterford, CT and Vitas Hospice for their care and compassion during his last months. A special thanks also to his sister-in-law, “Sweet Loretta” Harpestad of Cheraw, SC for her love and support, helping us navigate our way over the last two years. 

Please join us for a celebration of Mark’s life at the Steak Loft in Mystic, CT on Sunday, April 6, 2025, anytime between 1-4 p.m.  

In Mark’s memory, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, CT Chapter, 200 Executive Blvd., 4B, Southington, CT 06489-1058. 

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