Mark William DeChant passed away on Monday, November 16, 2015, at Spectrum Blodgett after a courageous battle against cancer. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 28, 1953. He embraced his life. The time he spent with his family brought him the most joy. Whenever he was playing tennis, soccer, skiing, gardening, or building Legos with Nicholas and Harrison, he was happy. He loved being a Dad. It was his calling. He had the unique capability of connecting with everyone he met, both personally and professionally representing any organization or cause he was involved with to the highest degree of integrity. He worked diligently at Herman Miller, Inc. to ensure that each client was engaged and informed. He could simultaneously listen to others and learn from them. He was able to build relationships readily and sustain them equally always with a bright wit, clear mind, and winning smile. His friendship knew no bounds, and he was always ready to share a laugh, or provide understanding and strength whenever needed. He will be truly missed by far more than he could fathom. He is survived by his wife Karen Dengler DeChant, his twin sons Nicholas and Harrison, his mother Patricia DeChant, his siblings Paul (Sue) DeChant, Keric (Gloriann) DeChant, and Patricia (Jim Johnson) DeChant, mother-in-law Esther Dengler, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Mark was preceded in death by his father Paul DeChant and father-in-law Herbert Dengler. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, November 19, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 8:30 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, November 20, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 750 Gladstone Dr SE, Grand Rapids, Rev. Mark Przybysz presiding. Visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Free Bed Foundation, 235 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503. To share a memory of Mark or sign the guestbook please visit gerstfuneralhomes.com
A special thank you to Dr. Daniel Drumm and every person who took such compassionate care of Mark. It was a journey.