My nephew Mark

My nephew Mark was an amazing person.

What an inspiring funeral.

Mark had a lot of love for everyone.

Mark Donald Parry passed away from the effects of cancer surrounded by his family on April 14, 2017.  Mark was born on September 26, 1983 in Fairfax, Virginia with Down Syndrome. His disability did not hinder his capacity to experience life to its fullest. He was raised by a village of selfless angels who gave him opportunities to develop talents and who bent over backwards to enrich his life. These efforts were so genuine that he never realized he had any disabilities.

Mark earned a black belt in karate. He was an Eagle Scout. Mark was active in Special Olympics, participating in track and field, bowling, and basketball.  He brought home gold and bronze medals from the Special Olympic World Games in Ireland in 2003.

Mark completed a service mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Food Services Department of the Church Office Building.  He continued to work there after his mission for nine years.  He was an example and recipient of the love of Jesus Christ and frequently shared his testimony.

In Mark’s mind he was one step away from owning a large horse ranch, serving as a policeman and soldier, being a husband, father, whale trainer, Texas Ranger, and PBR champion. He loved everything western. On his commute to work, he could always be seen in his cowboy hat wearing headphones, singing along to his favorite country music in his own special tone. He had an infectious smile, boundless energy and child-like innocence.

Special Needs Mutual, Institute, and his Young Single Adult Ward provided social and spiritual experiences that Mark looked forward to every week.  He felt loved, accepted and important, and rarely missed.

Mark was the youngest of ten children and had a unique relationship with his parents, and each of his brothers and sisters.  Family activities and vacations were a highlight in his life.  He checked in with his brothers and sisters on a regular basis. He was also the “favorite best” uncle to 37 nieces and nephews and loved to spend time with them.

Mark is preceded in death by his father, Richard, his brother, Adam, and his grandparents. Mark is survived by his mother, Judy, and siblings Scott (Robyn), Kristin Gillette (Scott), Todd (Tracy), Melissa Chandler (James), Stacy Anderson (Dax), Kevin (Jenn), Brett (Katie), and John (Lindsey).  Although he will be greatly missed, we are excited for Mark as he can now pursue his dreams free from the limitations of his imperfect body.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 22, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the Alta View Stake Center, 1850 East 8600 South in Sandy, Utah.  A viewing will be held Friday evening, April 21st, from 6-8 p.m. and again one hour prior to the funeral at the same location.  As a tribute to Mark, feel free to wear a cowboy hat or western accessories to the viewing. Interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens following the funeral at 1950 East Dimple Dell Road in Sandy, Utah.

Life is full of challenges, and family together always seems to make it better.
My sisters are wonderful.