Mark Sokolowski, 58, died Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, in Berlin after a period of failing health.

He was born in Middletown, the son of the late K. Charles and Joan (Golba) Sokolowski. Mark was a graduate of Xavier High School. He was formerly employed with the Atlas Company as a pyro-technician. Mark had a passion for music, playing the guitar and pedal steel guitar with various bands.

He is survived by his sister, Paula S. Bugay of Berlin; two nieces, Sarah Pawlowski and her husband, John, and their four children of New York, and Laura McGrath and her husband, Brian, of Massachusetts; also several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 14 at 11 a.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Berlin Animal Control, P.O. Box 1, Kensington, CT 06037 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.