Mark Heider, 69

Mark Steven Heider, 69, of McCall, Idaho, passed away peacefully on Nov. 16, 2023, after a courageous fight with cancer and illness. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Nov. 9, 1954, he was the youngest child of Melvin and Agnes Heider.

After graduating from DeLaSalle in 1972, Mark went on to study the electrical trade, along with two of his brothers. He quickly found not only an interest but a true love for his work, becoming a Master Electrician at just 24. Over his 45-year career, he earned the nickname “Sparky” as his work took him from the grain elevators of Minneapolis to the mountains of Montana and the backcountry of Idaho.

At 27, Mark married his longtime friend Joan (Galvin) and soon had two children, proudly taking on the role of husband and father. Together, Mark and Joan set out to raise their family in a quieter place and landed in Whitefish, Montana where they spent 28 years. Their home brimmed with guests from near and far ready for the next adventure with Mark as the tour guide.

Known to be kind and silly, Mark always welcomed children with an open heart and maybe even a tootsie roll. In 2018, Mark and Joan moved to McCall, Idaho, to be near their first grandchildren. Welcoming five grandchildren in all, becoming “Grandpa Mark” was perhaps the greatest honor of his life.

Mark’s curious nature and faith carried him through his battle with long-term illness. Despite the challenges he faced for many years he remained optimistic and a pillar of strength to the end. Now in peace, Mark leaves behind his wife, Joan; children, Edward (Megan), and Rose (Zach); grandchildren; sister, Nancy (Dan) Rions; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and dear friends.

A celebration of Mark’s life will take place during the warmer months of 2024 in McCall, Idaho. Family and friends are welcome to attend and share stories, jokes, and honor Mark. Celebration details are available at eventcreate.com/e/markheider