Mark Walden Obituary

My thoughts are with your family. Mark had to be very proud of his family and how much he gave to them.

Mary -- I am so sorry to hear this terrible news. You and your family have my deepest sympathy.

Mark and I were good friends for many years. I will always remember the good times when we walked Elmhurst from end to end and the seemly endless drives in the country listening to Jimi Hendrix, Traffic & The Beatles. One of those country excursions ended us up on the runways of O'hare Airport! I also remember leaving college exams early to be the best man at his first wedding. He lived in my house for awhile and years later he returned the favor of letting me live in his house with him and Mary for over a year. Our tribe was very tight for many years but I and others moved away. We all drifted apart in recent years but I really miss Mark very much and the entire tribe for that matter.

I have fond memories of Mark as one of the leaders of our gang in High school and into our twenties. I will remember riding on his motor cycle around Elmhurst, both of us living with the Loudon's, camping with the gang in Wisconsin, smoking Camel straights in the summer, and his almost constant laugh. My wife and I are sad for Mary and the kids and hope they find peace and remember the "good times".

Although are hearts are sad and tears show are pain we will always keep you close in our memories and continue to celebrate your life. You showed us love with your heart, wisdom with your mind and courage with your never wavering fight. Your strength has laid a solid foundation and your legacy will continue in generations to come. The world has truly lost a wonderful man. We will miss you dearly and love you forever.

Mrs. Walden, Mike & the rest of the Walden Family,

Our sincere sympathy for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories.
Please know that you are in our thoughts.

With Sympathy,
The "Gang" at KR&G

Mark and I were old friends. Our friendship dated back 42 years. During the early years Mark had, on numerous occasions, saved both my life and my sanity through acts of both kindness and concern. Mark always seemed to me the Neal Cassady to our group of Merry Pranksters. He was the strong one you could count on and he was confident enough in himself to go on long trips alone and comeback after weeks or months and regale us with stories of his journeys. He always seemed to be the one who had it together. Never more so when he and Mary got together. I would always look forward to going to their house in those early years, they always made me feel welcome no matter what my condition. Over the years like all old friends we seemed to have drifted apart, each going on with their own lives and families. We would keep in touch once or twice a year through a phone call and try and catch up with what was going on with ourselves, spouses and families. One more thing out of many that I want to mention. Mark was always very respectful and helpful to my family as well. Especially my mother and father. They always asked how he was doing and remember him fondly as well. I will miss Mark and will think of him often. Cathy and my prayers go out to Mary and his family.