Mark Alan DeVries

Born in 1956, as a small boy, Mark worked picking asparagus, blueberries, peaches, and apples in his West Michigan hometown. He carried that work ethic into and through his life. He began as a journeyman meat cutter as a teenager, educated himself at Western Michigan University, and then gave over four decades of his skills and knowledge to Meijer, Inc., which he loved. Mark has spent the past decade, his “retirement,” working as a director for Spartan companies. He was a servant who led and leader who served.

Mark is survived by three children Andrea (Gary), Jonathon (Kayleen), and Linsey (Stephen); grandchildren Elijah, Isaac, Evelyn, Trenton, Elsie, Owen, and Oliver. Mark was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Mert; and sister, Marcia. He leaves behind his wife, Linda.

Mark was a wonderful storyteller and had an outstanding sense of humor. People often walked away from this “class wit” with a smile on their face and a giggle in their soul. Mark was also an amazing cook! Not one person walked away from his meals unsatisfied, and there were always leftovers doled out afterward to remember his impressive meals. He loved deer hunting and fishing with his friends and family; he could not wait to camp with his family each year. He enjoyed wild berry picking, rides on dirt roads, stoking huge campfires, feeding the birds, fast cars, and powerful trucks. Mark had a very deep affection and unique love for his faithful and fun dog, Joe Joe. Joe misses him very much.

Mark accepted Christ as his Savior at about ten years old at a church camp, and is today face to face with his Heavenly Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. This triune God lifted him up in his last days giving him endurance, vigor, and strength to withstand all he had to go through. After battling cancer three times, in the end it was his heart that gave in. He had a big heart, and now it lives on in eternal glory.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, with visitation from 1-2 p.m. prior to service. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.