Mark Loeffelbein, 53, of Traverse City, Michigan passed away suddenly on October 20, 2018 at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan surrounded by his loved ones.
Mark was born on July 28, 1965 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Roger and Elaine Loeffelbein. He had a special loving bond with his parents that was like no other. Their committed dedication to Mark's independence led him to a happy fulfilling life.
Mark traveled to many adventurous places with his parents and sister's family. He loved to watch freighters and he visited the Soo Locks every July with his dad. But Traverse City was Mark's home! He had many friends that made time for him, and he touched the hearts of so many people he interacted with in his community and anywhere he went. He had his favorite places to visit along Garfield during his daily routine including the Beverage Company, Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings, and La Senorita Restaurant. They all welcomed him with open arms. He will be remembered as affectionate, funny, independent, extremely social, charismatic and loving. If you told him your name you were his friend.
He previously worked at Grand Traverse Industries. He loved to swim in the lake, downhill ski, and ride his moped. He participated in the Special Olympics in swimming and skiing for many years. He loved to read the newspaper, and any books pertaining to transportation or motors. Babies were fascinating to Mark especially if they were crying! Marks greatest daily enjoyment included Coca-Cola, candy and holding hands. His full smile and joyous laughter made it difficult to deny him these pleasures.
Mark is survived by his loving sister, Diane (Matt) Miller and his beloved nephew Jacob and niece Megan. Also, his aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved to spend time with him. Mark had a special bond with his friend and caregiver Margaret that can't be described with words, once witnessed you were made richer. He was blessed with wonderful social workers who helped him maintain his independence. He was very engaged in the church and enjoyed being embraced by many Christian communities, especially the Traverse Bay Mennonite Church who provided Mark with a second loving family.
A visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 2, 2018 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684.
A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Mark will take place at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at Christ The King Catholic Church, 3801 Shore Rd., Williamsburg, Michigan 49690. Rev. Fr. Raymond Cotter will officiate. Burial will be in Acme Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to GTI (Grand Traverse Industries), 2883 Aero Park Dr. Traverse City, MI 49686, a local employer of the disabled.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Mark's family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .
The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.