Mark’s path in life was guided by the culture of our country’s rapid social change and tumultuous political events. Mark’s proclivity towards deep empathy for others drove him toward advocacy for those with a diminished status in life due to bigotry or misunderstanding by others. Mark himself often felt misunderstood and would strive for connection to his fellow man. He did so through sincere communications and compassionate confrontation, always one to relish in a lively debate.
Mark was blessed with a deep faith in the unseen, feeling and believing the truth in God and the interdependence of all his creation. He rejoiced in the awe of the natural world, cherishing time with his family, camping and immersing himself in the regenerative energy of the great outdoors. He was deeply moved to music, spending many evenings attending live shows or letting music ring throughout his home. He sought to explore the depth of his own consciousness, seeking a greater connection and understanding of God, himself, and those closest to him.
Mark was also down to earth, midwestern American. He enjoyed sitting down to a Husker football game, playing with his dogs, talking politics, water skiing, or working in his garden. He had a work ethic few could match. He believed in the dignity and soul refining power of a hard day’s work. Materially he led a simple life, saving all capacity for complexity in his effort to relate to others at the core of their values and beliefs.
He received immense satisfaction in cooking for and sharing meals with his children and grandchildren. To witness all of them discovering their own path and to establish their own footing in life while sharing in their achievements and struggles, served as a guiding light in the affirmation of his faith in God, commandment to love, and assurance of his wealth. For all the richness of Mark’s life, he was happiest spending time with his family. For all the connections in his life that were authentic and meaningful there was none more profound and centering than what he shared with his partner and wife Rhonda. Their partnership was a powerful example of service and love toward one another. Their time together, along with all who he left behind, ended all too soon. All too sudden. Mark, Dad, you are among those we love who left before, in the bosom of Abraham, in the arms of Jesus. May we keep the best of you in our hearts and minds, until we meet again.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law Gary Jerrison and Rod Wright, aunts, uncles, friends, and acquaintances. He is survived by his wife Rhonda; siblings Susan Connett-Jerrison, Dave (Sonya) Connett, Gina (Jim Atkinson), and Sherry; sons Abram (Amy), Andrew (Ashley Goodwin), Simon (Katherine); mother of his children Amina Cassini; grandchildren Aden, Abigail, John, Henry, and Miriam Connett; nieces and nephew Meghan (Scott Sherman), Deva, and Charlie Connett; numerous cousins, in-laws, de-facto family, friends, and if you knew him, You!
Memorial service: 4:30 p.m., Saturday, December 30, 2023, Christ United Methodist Church, 4530 A Street.
Memorials may be given to KZUM Radio.
Cremation/No visitation