Mark Burton Smith

Mark Burton Smith, 59, departed this earthly life on October 17, 2026. Born on November 4, 1966, Mark was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud Papa. He considered his family his greatest treasure and took immense pride in the life he and his beloved wife, Catherine Gapinski Smith, created together.

Mark and Cathy shared 34 years of marriage. He adored her. A steadfast team, they spent their lives doting on their children, making a beautiful home, and creating memories their family will carry forever. He looked forward to retirement by Cathy’s side, with more time to enjoy their growing family and the life they had so lovingly built together. His family wishes, with all their hearts, that he had been given many more years to do just that.

For more than 30 years, Mark and Cathy made their home in Arlington Heights, where they built a close community and raised their four children: Miranda (nee Smith) Schmalhaus (Monte), Emily Smith, Charles Smith (Janina), and Jacob Smith.

Mark held a lifelong love for Charlevoix, Michigan, where countless childhood memories were joined by cherished summers with his own family. He also loved the mountain air and a beautiful view, where in Big Bear, California he and Cathy built another special home and a gathering place for those they loved. The summers in Charlevoix and family time in Big Bear will forever hold a place in their family’s hearts.

Being Papa to Novah Smith and Hudson Schmalhaus brought Mark immense joy. He and Cathy delighted in spoiling their grandchildren with love and attention, bringing the same devotion to being grandparents that they had always given to raising their own children. A hands-on Papa, Mark loved being right beside his grandchildren as they explored the world, sharing in their wonder and discoveries. He was so proud of them, and every new stage brought another reason to smile.

Intelligent and thoughtful, Mark chose his words with care, whether sharing his perspective or slipping in a perfectly timed quip. His deep belly laugh was a familiar and treasured sound to those who knew him best. He loved Chicago sports and adored his dog, George, who will dearly miss his cuddles and full-body hugs.

Mark was the cherished son of SueAnn Smith and the late Verne Smith; loving brother of Kristyn (nee Smith) Hemmer (Chris)as well as Jeremy Smith (Molly), and Christopher Smith (Liz); and a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews on both sides of the family.

Mark never sought the center of attention. He was happiest sharing life with the people he loved, and it is in those everyday moments together that he will be most deeply missed. His family has no doubt that he will be watching over them as they continue to grow in the years ahead, a proud husband, father, and Papa always.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Heart Association in Mark’s memory. https://www.heart.org/en/why-give

Family and friends are invited to the memorial visitation from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N. Arlington Heights Rd. Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Words of remembrance and prayers will start at 2:00 PM.