Mark Jon Van De Walker

Mark Jon Van De Walker, 57, of Longmont passed away August 1, 2017 at Longmont United Hospital.He was born Oct. 21, 1959 in Spokane, Washington to Willard Bill and Enid (Olson) Van De Walker. The family lived in Spokane until 1964, moving then to Great Falls, Montana. They settled in Longmont in 1970. Mark was active as a Boy Scout attaining the rank of Life Scout. He played the trumpet in Jr. and Sr. High band. He graduated from Longmont High School in June of 1978.In August of 1978 Mark started his apprenticeship with the Denver Pipefitters Union Local 208. It was a 5-year program to become a Journeyman pipefitter. This would become his life long career. He worked in construction and service.Mark relocated to Vermont to work on a special union project. He returned to Colorado and rejoined Local 208. He worked on several projects at Rocky Flats, IBM and the Denver International Airport to name a few. He was self-employed as Van's Mechanical.He enjoyed the outdoors and the challenge of outdoor activities. He loved the mountains and especially snow skiing. He took many ski trips with his friends to Utah, Wyoming and Colorado. He was known to always take the more difficult runs. He enjoyed spending time on his boat, fishing, camping and white water rafting down the Colorado River.Mark spent several years living on a small homestead in Weld County; riding his tractor, raising chickens and gardening.He worked hard and played hard. How can we forget his Harley Davidson motorcycle, which he enjoyed riding for many benefit rides and his first dirt-bike. He is remembered for his loud laughter, loud motorcycles, crazy women and his giving spirit.Mark loved the companionship of his German shepherd dogs, first was Cale and later Buck.He was preceded in death by his father.Mark is survived by his mother Enid Van De Walker, brother Jeff, sister Kristin, a niece Serena Dageenakis (David), two great nephews Christian and Tyson and numerous cousins.A graveside service will be held 4:00pm Sunday, Aug. 6, 2017 at Ryssby Cemetery. Cremation entrusted to Ahlberg Funeral Chapel and Crematory. Visit www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com to share condolences.