Mark True '82

Inducted Fall 2023

Mark True spent most of his childhood on the Fryeburg Academy campus, the son of long-time faculty member and later headmaster Harry True. Mark was a member of the Class of 1982 and excelled in the classroom and on the athletic fields and courts.

Mark entered FA during his sophomore year when his father returned to be headmaster.  He was a standout soccer, basketball, and baseball team member. He was co-captain of the soccer team his senior year and a member of the Western Maine Conference All-Star team his junior and senior years; he earned SYC honorable mention his junior year and first-team all-tourney Class B. Mark was a member of the 1982 State Championship Class C Baseball team. He was selected to the National Honor Society, Boys State, and was elected vice-president of his class as a senior.

Following FA's graduation, Mark graduated and was commissioned from the United States Coast Guard Academy. Mark continued to shine on the basketball court and football field, creating lifelong friendships there. In 2007, he retired as a Commander (Captain Select) after 21 years of dedicated and honorable active duty service; then, he continued serving his country as a Federal employee and a Port Security Specialist at the First Coast Guard District. His personal military honors include two Meritorious Service Medals, three Coast Guard Commendation Medals, one Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and one Coast Guard Letter of Commendation Ribbon. He also received the Department of Transportation Secretary Award for Partnering Excellence for his outstanding teamwork with the Port Security Grants Team post-September 11, 2001. 

Always willing to volunteer, Mark had a passion for coaching and mentoring on and off the field, even if his children were not involved. Known as "Coach" by many, his advice and lessons were valued and appreciated. Mark treasured time with family and friends, whether it be at the beach, over the grill, or walking the dog. 

Mark passed away at age 56 after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family – his wife, Laureen of 28 years,  his children, Keegan, Braeden, and Kylene, and his siblings, Kathy True Ela ‘78, Sherry True Ingalls ’76, and Paul True ’88.