Mark Lewis McConkie

1948 ~ 2018
Mark Lewis McConkie, son of Bruce R. and Amelia McConkie, passed away on June 20, 2018. He died with his wife (Mary Ann Taylor) and his nine children at his side. 
Mark was born on June 29, 1948 in Salt Lake City. He knew that growing up in his parents' home–where love and the teachings of Christ were the motive force–was one of his greatest blessings. He stood on the shoulders of giants.
He graduated from West High before serving in the North Argentine Mission. When he returned he attended Brigham Young University. There he earned the hand of Mary Ann Taylor and two degrees. He received his doctorate from the University of Georgiaand spent the next 41 years teaching at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. In that capacity he produced over a hundred scholarly publications and presentations in both national and international scholarly forums. 
His was an inquisitive and capable mind, and he loved filling it with history, music, literature and poetry. The bulk of his attention went to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, which he taught by precept and example. He authored four books, preached thousands of sermons, and ministered to any within the reach of his long arms. 
His greatest work was his family; his greatest support his devoted wife. Together they are the parents of nine children: Mark (Charlotte), Taylor (Wendy), Matthew (Shelley), David (Ramona), Ann Marie Giles (Matthew), Rebecca Smylie (Levi), Sara Lohmeier (Matt), Michael (Lauren) and Daniel (Sarah). They are expecting their 45th and 46th grandchildren this summer.
He will be remembered for his certitude, his integrity, his quick wit and cheerful disposition. He knew how to be happy, and his legacy-encapsulated by a kiss on the forehead and the admonition to "carry on"-continues to inspire those who now stand on his noble shoulders. 
Memorial services will be on Thursday, June 28, at 11 a.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2080 East 5165 South, Salt Lake City. A visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 at the same location. He will be interred in the SL cemetery next to his family.