Mark Dennis Mecham

October 1, 1975 - July 25, 2021

In loving memory of Mark Dennis Mecham, we are saddened to announce his passing on July 25, 2021. Mark was born October 1, 1975, in Tampa, FL, where his parents, Dennis and Linda, joyfully welcomed him into this world! When Mark was 15 months old, his family moved back to Glendale, AZ. As Mark began to grow, it became clear that childhood developmental milestones were not being met. After extensive testing, the medical community determined that Mark had many cognitive limitations that would prevent him from progressing any further. That diagnosis did not deter his parents, but rather was the beginning of opening many doors for Mark, as they sought to provide him therapies and education that would enhance his abilities to reach his full potential during his journey upon this earth. Mark attended the Peoria Unified School District and upon graduation, began attending several Day Programs where he met new friends and participated in many social activities. Mark and his family moved to Mesa in 2011, where he attended MARC Community Resources Day Program, CC’s Place. He loved going to his Day Program, seeing his friends, and kissing the staff to make Mom jealous! When COVID restrictions prevented him from attending, he often expressed his desire to go his program to see his friends, always mentioning them by name, as well as his beloved staff. He especially looked forward to Miss Julie coming every week for music therapy, playing instruments and singing songs. Because of Mark’s various needs and experiences in the developmentally disabled world, his family became very involved in the advocacy, care, and protection of others with disabilities. Mark attended many meetings with Linda, and even helped her testify at the State Legislature, supporting bills that would promote the safety, well-being, and rights protections for those who do not have a voice. Mark’s life had a definite influence in the intellectual and developmentally disabled world. Mark loved going to church, and especially singing the hymns. His voice could be heard by all, and they always told Mark how much they loved his singing. Mark loved this country, and expressed that love by singing all of the patriotic songs, wearing his USA baseball caps, and very respectfully displaying the flag. One of Mark’s favorite vacation spots was Disneyland. Because Dad had business that often took him to California, Mark became a regular at “The Happiest Place on Earth.” Cinderella saw him on one visit, patted his cheeks and said, “Mark, my handsome prince, you are back!” Mark gave her a big hug!! Family has been Mark’s heart. He was always encouraged, included, and loved by grandparents, aunts uncles and cousins, participated fully in all family activities, and was never treated as if he was different. Because of Mark our family has learned, to a greater degree, that everyone has value and each has potential for growth. Mark is preceded in death by his Grandparents, and is survived by his parents, Dennis and Linda, his sister, Rebekah, his brother, Brent (Rebecca), 2 nephews, Hayden and Dallin, and 2 nieces, Scarlet, and Kaylee. While family was Mark’s heart, Mark is and always will be…..our heart. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held: Saturday, August 7, 2021; 10:00 AM The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 422 East University Dr. Mesa, AZ. 85203 Interment at City of Mesa Cemetery Memorial Contributions may be made to Mark’s Day Program: COPA Heath/MARC Community Resources 924 N. Country Club Drive Mesa, AZ 85201