Mark Hardesty

PEORIA – Mark Hardesty, 68, of Peoria, IL died peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 following a lengthy illness. Mark was born on March 20, 1949 in Peoria to Bill and Shirley Howat Hardesty. He married Theresa Rahe on March 22, 1986; she survives. Also surviving are his six children, Troy Hardesty of Aurora, CO; Robert Parker (Lisa), Bill Hardesty, Suzanne Hardesty, Ted Hardesty, and Emily Hardesty, all of Peoria, and his granddaughter, Maya Hardesty, of Aurora, CO. In addition, his five siblings, John (Sheryl) of Lewistown, IL, Linda (Dave) Blazis of Colorado Springs, CO; Sherill Diepenbrock, Jim (Carla), and Janet (Dr. Mark) Werking, all of Peoria, also survive, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, and one granddaughter, Madison. Mark graduated from Woodruff High School in 1967 and studied electrical engineering technology at Bradley University until he entered the electrician apprentice course at Caterpillar in 1969. After 16 successful years with Caterpillar, in 1985 he was part of a group that formed a new company, Advanced Technology Services. He spent the majority of his career in management, retiring on April 1, 2017. He loved his work and exemplified the spirit of servant leadership. Mark was an avid outdoorsman and athlete who had many eclectic interests, especially hunting, fishing, and gardening. In addition, he assumed active roles in all of his children’s activities, such as Boy Scout leader; baseball, soccer and chess coach; horse show dad; and stage dad. He was passionate about everything he did, and he did it well. Above all, Mark was a man of faith and family. His life, especially during his bout with cancer, was a witness to his belief and trust in God. He was devoted to his wife and children, endlessly kind, patient, humble, generous, fun, courageous, and loving. A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at St. Jude Catholic Church in Peoria. Fr. Patrick Henehan will officiate. Visitation will be from 4 – 7 PM Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at Deiters Funeral Home in Washington, with a recitation of the rosary at 7:30 PM. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the church. Interment will be at St.Clement Cemetery in rural Dunlap, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mark's name may be made to the Sisters of Mary Morning Star or the Women's Care Center of Peoria, in care of Deiters Funeral Home 2075 Washington Rd. Washington, IL 61571.

Mark Hardesty

March 20, 1949 - April 26, 2017