Michael Thatcher Mark

Michael Thatcher Mark was born on August 28, 1949 in Ogden, Utah. He passed away on March 10, 2022 in Clinton, Utah.

Michael was raised on the family farm in Ogden, Utah where he learned to work with his brother, Joe, growing and harvesting produce. He graduated from Utah State University in 1972 with a degree in Landscape Architecture.

Michael was a talented designer and spent the majority of his career as a landscape architect for the Chicago Park District. He created countless parks, play lots, gardens, and professional exhibits. His inclusive designs represented diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Many of his projects were in poor, rundown neighborhoods. He believed that beautiful botanical spaces would create a desire for the residents to raise their own standard of living. Henry David Thoreau said, “To affect the quality of the day, that is the highest of the arts.” Michael was the embodiment of this quote.

It was in Chicago that Michael met Mary Blickenstaff. They were married in the Manti, Utah temple on April 18, 1980. To their delight, three sons joined the family: Garrett, Austin (Bryan), and Kendall (Shannon).

Michael’s creativity and genius extended to his personal and family life. He designed posters, caricatures, sketches, and illustrations, many of which reflected his brilliant sense of humor. His sons donned the best costumes on the block each Halloween, and the play structure he built in the backyard was the envy of the neighborhood. The local grammar school also benefited from Michael’s artistic abilities. He designed the sets for several school plays.

Throughout his life, Michael was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served several years in the Chicago temple as an ordinance worker and shift supervisor. He loved being in the temple and working with the people there.

Michael’s kind heart, generosity, and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Mary, his sons Garrett, Austin (Bryan), Kendall (Shannon); and his brother, Joseph Mark (Pam). Preceded in death by his parents, Angelo Frank Mark and Norma Jean Thatcher.

The family wishes to thank all those who cared for Michael in his later years, especially the staff at Country Pines.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 16th at 7 pm at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main Street, Bountiful, Utah. Visitation from 6-7 pm.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be streamed live on the Russon Brothers Mortuary Facebook page and on this obituary page. Streaming will begin 10-15 minutes prior to services.