Mark Steven Burkheiser

Jedi Master Mark Steven Burkheiser, 53 years old of Deerfield, MI (formerly of Ann Arbor) passed peacefully at home on September 6th, 2022, with his wife, daughter and dogs by his side.

Born February 8th, 1969 - in a galaxy far, far away (Ann Arbor, MI) - Mark was the son of Gary and Margaret (Rubarth) Burkheiser. He graduated from Huron High School in 1986. Mark married Jennifer Montry on September 7th, 1996, in Deerfield, MI. As each other’s best friends, they were compatible in the truest sense. First and foremost, Mark was a devoted husband and father was beyond proud of his daughter and all her achievements. The love their family shared was evident by anyone who knew them.

He worked for Sears as a mechanic for 28 years and Tenneco as an engineering technician for the past 8 years. When he was not working, Mark enjoyed spending time restoring classic cars, working on cars, reading car magazines, off-roading, vacationing at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes with his Jeep, and going to car shows, where he would surely meet a new friend named Dave. He also dabbled in stained glass, loved gardening and was active in the 4H Dog Club. In addition, he was an avid fan of Star Wars and surrounded himself with an extensive collection of tchotchkes that would put Jawas to shame. A humble and thoughtful individual, he would do anything for anyone. Mark was an incredibly kind and caring man. His friends were extremely important, and he tended to his friendships with care. May he be remembered for the life he lived, the love he shared, and the joy he spread.

Survivors include: his wife, his mother, his mother-in-law Diane Montry, his daughter Natalie Burkheiser, his dogs Samantha and Timothy, his sister Cherie (Brent) Burkheiser, his sister-in-law Gabrielle Badder, and nephews Ajay Burkheiser, Larry Richardson, and Gavin Badder, Mark was preceded in death by his father, father-in-law Gaylord Montry and his grandparents Herman and Margaret Rubarth, and Lawrence and Ruth Burkheiser. A celebration of life will be held to honor Mark on Sunday September 25th, 2022, at the New Life Church, Petersburg, MI. Visitation at 3:00 pm, with the celebration to begin at 4:00 pm followed by dinner.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center or the Monroe Humane Society in memory of Mark would be appreciated.

The family wishes for you to share a story, a memorable moment or kind words online about Mark by leaving a condolence. May the Force be with you.