Obituary of David Kenneth Marks

David Kenneth Marks, died peacefully at home August 10, 2024. He was born in Saginaw on August 27, 1944 to Kenneth and Madge (Brace) Marks. They predeceased him. In the last few months of his life, David battled two aggressive blood cancers. The first, diagnosed in late 2019, was successfully in remission for three-and-a-half years, thanks to a University of Michigan drug trial and the on-going care and cancer management of his U of M oncologist, Dr. Christine Pettit, and her incredible team. In May of this year, David was diagnosed with aggressive myeloid leukemia (AML), which moved rapidly through his system, eventually causing his death.

Knowing he had but a short time, David penned the following words: “While preparing to leave this world for the next, I paused to look back over my life, remembering those who helped shape me into becoming the man that I am. I want to let them know the impact they had on my life.

Starting with my parents. Mom and dad allowed me to be a typical boy growing up in the ‘50’s. But with that freedom came lessons in responsibility, accountability, and trust. Lessons I carry with me to this very moment of my life. My parents provided the foundation for my growth into my love for God. Observing how mom and dad treated everyone the same way, taught me that equality was how this world is supposed to work. I was so blessed with the parents I had.

Another blessing was my wife, Cheryl. For 56 years we walked this world together. Her 44-year battle with MS showed me how precious life is as she fought every day to be relevant. She “raged against the dying of the light, refusing to go gently into that good night.” (Lines from a poem by Dylan Thomas) I have followed her example to the best of my ability. I so look forward to being with her once again.

When it comes to sisters, I won the lottery. Anne is an excellent advocate. But, beyond that, she is my friend, a confidante; most definitely a laugh partner. Someone who earns your respect instantly because of the content of her character. Thank you, Anne. My life would not have been the same without you being in it. Love you, sis. I will miss you.

When I was a boy, I really wanted an older brother, someone to have a catch with, or play a game of horse, to help guide me as I grew into the world around me. Well, I had to wait fifty years for that older ‘brother’ to walk into my life. Jim, your humor, decency, and love of life, all served as a role model for me. You are living proof that good things come to those who wait. You were such a blessing in my life.

My son Michael was a blessing for me. Although we did not see each other as often as we would have liked, I used his example of persistence as a guide for my own life. Michael hiked the Appalachian Trail more than once. And, in 2009, he peddled a bicycle, with trailer, around the country. He left Slidell, LA in February of that year, and returned home in October, peddling over 10,000 miles. Sheer determination. I followed his example throughout my life, as best as I could. If you have a question about history, any level of history, I am more than certain that Michael can give you the information you seek. Love you, son.

If you are lucky over your lifetime, you will have a friend. A true friend, a confidante, someone who is always there for you. Well, I have been deeply blessed to have such a friend. Tami lives in Nevada, and for 25 years our friendship grew and deepened. Secrets shared, shoulders cried upon, being a bulwark of support for each other. Tami has a gift of compassion, always willing to put the needs of others ahead of her own. From this, I realized the importance of considering the needs of others. Thank you, Tami. Love you and please…take good care of you.

Three members of the Clergy helped me understand how to grow in my relationship with my Lord and savior, Jesus. First, Pastor Bruce (Carson City, NV). He said if you want to understand what Jesus expects, do not just read the Gospels, rather step into them. Join in with the crowd, look around, what do you see? What do you hear? This method changes your perspective on the teachings of Jesus. Rev. Kathy (retired, First United Methodist Church, Saginaw), you saw something in me that I was totally unaware of. Thank you for helping me bring it into the light, to share my beliefs with others. Love you, ‘sis.’ And, Pastor Amy, (First United Methodist Church, Saginaw) thank you for showing me how to reach out and love everyone. You are so open and down to earth with everyone you meet, expressing in your day to day how our Lord wants us to treat others. You are a blessing to all who cross your path.

As for friends? Jeremy and Justin, Jim’s sons. Two exceptional young men. Thank you for readily accepting me into your family. I respect each of you so very much. Kathy and Denny Wolf, (Midland, MI) my theater and dining buddies. You are such great people. I will miss you both, especially Denny’s stories. And Kay Mertz (Saginaw), 15 two and pair are four, my Cribbage buddy. Most definitely going to miss our Thursday afternoons.

There are so many others, too numerous to name, that made my life’s trek one of joy, who helped me deepen my love of God, and showed me the importance of diversity, equality, and inclusion. Thank you, one and all for being guard rails along my road to this moment.

And so, for each of you, I pray:

          That the Lord blesses you and keeps you. That the lord makes his face shine upon each of you, and be gracious to you. That the Lord turns his face toward you and gives you peace today, and for all your tomorrows.

Finally, one last time, let me just say…GO BLUE!”

David and Cheryl (Fulcher) married in Saginaw on June 19, 1965 and became parents to son, Michael on October 10, 1966. In 1973 they moved to Nevada and enjoyed many good years among David’s beloved mountains. Because of Cheryl’s long-term health issues they moved back to Saginaw in 2011 to be near family. Over these past years, David had opportunities to get reacquainted with his aunts, uncle, and many cousins. He also enjoyed family time in worship, sharing meals together, theatre outings, and more. After Cheryl’s death in December 2021, David enjoyed trips to FL with sister Anne and brother-in-law, Jim, wine tasting in Traverse City, and even a couple of cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, which he really enjoyed. And he especially enjoyed trips to visit his son, Michael, in OR and dear friends in NV.    

David was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, cousin and friend. A man of deep and abiding faith in God’s love and grace. He loved a good scotch, whiskey, wine or beer and never turned down an opportunity for a good meal with people who mattered to him. David had a deep love of animals, a love that he shared with Cheryl. Nature, hiking and exploring were in his DNA and he never tired of being outdoors enjoying the wonders of God’s world. His music tastes ranged from classical to jazz, blues, Broadway show tunes and soul. An avid reader and life-long learner, David preferred writings on faith, science and history, as well as poetry by the likes of Walt Whitman and Robert Frost. He was a Christian role model for his sister, Anne, his extended family and his dear friends. A huge U of M sports fan, David’s love of sports also included the San Francisco Giants and University of Nevada football. He had a wicked sense of humor and was a reliable resource for everything from sports statistics to critical moments in history.

David was loved and will be missed by his son, Michael (OR); sister, Anne Marks-Gaertner (Jim), Saginaw; Jim’s sons, Jeremy (Washington, DC) and Justin (Jackie, Parker, Jackson), Commerce, MI; his very dear friend, Tami Cosand, NV; his Marks family cousins and Uncle Stan and Aunt Juanita; the Gaertner family who welcomed him so warmly; and many friends at Saginaw First United Methodist Church.

Per David’s request, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church, 4790 Gratiot, Saginaw, on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 11am. Visitation will be from 9:30 until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Building Fund of First United Methodist Church.  To sign online guestbook visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.