Mark Heeg, loving husband and father, died on April 4, 2014 at the age of 56.  Mark passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after gracefully living the past 2 ½ years with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  Mark will be lovingly remembered as a teacher, Child Advocate, grill-master, avid reader, volunteer, coach; proud father and devoted husband.  

Mark is survived by his wife of 37 years, Peggy, his beautiful daughters Allison, Taylor and Madison, his son-in-law, Alex and his two faithful companions  Boots and Digger.  Mark is also survived by his parents, Robert and Dolores Heeg, his sister Julie, brothers Bob, Stephen and David, and many friends who are honored to have known him. 

After growing up in Louisville, Ky., Mark graduated from the University of Houston, taught middle school and high school math and spent many hours volunteering for Child Advocates.  Mark was actively involved in the lives of his children.  Following his diagnosis with ALS, Mark chose to live life to its fullest and face ALS with dignity and a smile.  He lived every day with grace, faith and a sense of humor.  Throughout his illness, Mark actively participated, in the lives of his family and enjoyed nothing more than attending his children’s events and having fun with his family.  Instead of focusing on his losses, Mark embraced his doctor’s advice to “keep the weight on,” enjoying the endless meals and desserts provided by a large team of friends.

Mark is most proud of his children and their growth and unconditional love during his journey with ALS.

Mark and his family are truly appreciative for all the love and support bestowed upon him by his family and friends throughout his journey with ALS.  We  especially want to thank Morna, Denise, Julie, Kelly, Jennifer, Susan, Kathy, Karen and many others in the Duchesne Academy, St. John’s School, United Way Women’s Initiative and Norton Rose Fulbright communities.  The family expresses its gratitude to Dr. Holland, Dr. Appel, Dr. Simpson, and the many professionals at the MDA ALS clinic, who lovingly cared for Mark.