We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Mark here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Mark was the best person I have ever known. I will never be the same; he made me better, and I will love and think of him everyday.
I will forever be grateful to Mark's family & friends for their constant support, love and communication, especially during the last few months.
Go with peace and dogs, my love, and I will see you later.
Yours,
B
Bekah Johnson
July 1st, 2014 at 12:00am
Our condolences to Mark's family and to Bekah,
Mark's sense of humor, great skills, and his love of animals has been a great addition to the neighborhood. We certainly appreciated all the hard work he has done for us. We will miss his that wonderful smile and laughter.
Rest in Peace,
Jim and Chris Wagoner
Jim & Chris Wagoner
July 1st, 2014 at 12:00am
Both Elaine and I got to know Mark, when our eldest Son moved to Michigan with his family in 2008. He became good friends with our family, and we spent many happy times with Mark and Bekha, who were a credit to themselves, and were always ready to help out the English guy finding his feet in the USA.
Later Mark was project manager on the purchase of our Sons home in South Haven, and again he and bekha were at the front helping out...He was the kind of man, other men could look up too, and had the knack of always looking 'cool'....His impersonation of Sean Connery was pretty good too! I will miss you mate, as will countless others, you made everyones lives better...
Nick Thompson
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
We have only known Mark a short time, too short. His warmth, generosity, kindness and great sense of humour will never be forgotten. And I know that Bekah will smile at this - A tool belt will never look the same again. Sincere condolences to family.
Elaine Thompson x
Elaine Thompson
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
Mark was a great man and a dear friend. He was true and genuine with a fun, vibrant personality and a wonderful sense of humor. He has helped our family so many times and in so many ways. When we purchased our home, he put his talents to work finishing our basement, installing our appliances, building shelves and did everything he could to make the home OURS. He has always been there for us no matter what and we will be forever grateful. His passing is such a devastating loss for all the lives he's touched. Our hearts go out to his family, praying for them to find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Mark & Melissa
Mark & Melissa Thompson
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
Bob and are are deeply saddened by the loss of my cousin Mark. We are so glad we had the opportunity to see him at our family reunion last September. He did have that wonderful Sauers/Thurber sense of humor which is a great gift! When we would visit in the South Haven area, he always gave us wonderful recommendations for the best food and music. We are so sorry that we will no longer be able to visit with him at "Red on Blue Wood Works" where we saw him in his creative element. I am now looking at one of his wonderful "Flying Pigs" creations that hangs over my kitchen window.
My heart goes out to all the family, Bekah and other dear friends.
Carol Sauers Stange
Carol Sauers Stange
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
Mark was one of my oldest friends. We grew up together. I was very sorry to hear about his passing. Even though we grew apart over the years I still consider him a dear friend and I will miss him. My condolences to Mark's family.
Jim Pantke
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
Even seeing you fleetingly over the years, it was always a pleasure. You were always, warm, funny, and a reminder of how closely our families had become over many years. You will be missed!!
Robert Shields, Jr.
July 2nd, 2014 at 12:00am
My wife and and I are saddened to learn of Mark's passing. Mark was our neighbor and friend in Western Springs for many years. His woodworking and building skills could be found on many houses in our town and our street. He loved working in his workshop and always seemed to have a new project.
Mark was very kind to all of the children in the neighborhood and was especially kind to our children who loved to see what he was building in his workshop. He always had a kind word, a great smile, and hearty laugh. We enjoyed many conversations with him in our back yard and his guitar playing.
We could not have asked for a better neighbor and were sad when he relocated to Michigan but knew that is where he wanted to live. Mark may be gone but he will not be forgotten by our family and neighbors.
Jim and Lynne Woulfe
July 6th, 2014 at 12:00am
Met Mark and Becka whist in the States both when my daughter was ill and since when myself and my cousin Iris came over for a holiday three years ago,we both send our condolences,he was a lovely man.
Sheila Eyre
July 8th, 2014 at 12:00am
Beckah and the Sauers Family:
My sincere apologies for this very late expression of sympathy. I am in total shock.
Since I live in Chicago, I found it difficult to travel to SoHa this past winter. The weather never seemed to let up. I had heard lots of stories from friends that their pipes were freezing and roofs were taking a hit.
I called Mark to check on my house. In the worst ever weather, he trudged over and alleviated my fears. He also shut off the water supply, which was smart and gave me great peace of mind. Although he refused to accept payment, I had Tello's buy him a few cocktails on me.
Mark and I talked again in the Spring about some work and he told me he was taking the summer off because his back was still not healed.
He was smart, kind and talented. I also thought he was a pretty "classy contractor". And, yes, he did have a great sense of humor!
I'm just so caught off guard by this and feeling so very sad.
I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sarah Van Assche
October 25th, 2014 at 12:00am