Mark E. Vande Werken

Mark Vande Werken, 74, of Portage, Michigan, passed away Sunday, August 23, 2026. He was born February 20, 1952, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Anthony Vande Werken and Mary (Conklin) Vande Werken.

Mark proudly served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Specialist E-4. During his military service, he was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and in Korea.

Following his military service, Mark built a career as a licensed Journeyman Electrician and contractor. A talented craftsman, he also had a love for woodworking and enjoyed creating things with his own hands.

Above all, Mark will be remembered for the way he treated others. He was a friend to all, and his kindness and friendship will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Mark is survived by his wife, Susan (Craven) Vande Werken; his daughter, Lee Vande Werken; two sisters, Deb Hugheson and Jane (Sonny) Coover; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Rick Vande Werken.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 10:00 - 11:00 AM on Friday, September 11, 2026 at Adams-Redmond-Parchment Funeral Home, 2300 E. G Avenue, Parchment, MI 49004, where a memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Pastor Valerie Noles officiating. Mark will be laid to rest with full military honors at 1:00 PM at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Road, Augusta, MI 49012. Please arrive at the assembly area of the cemetery no later than 12:45 PM. 

Memorial contributions may be made to West Michigan Cancer Center, 200 N. Park Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007; National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, D.C. 20090-1891; Battle Creek VA Medical Center, Community and Volunteer Service (135), 5500 Armstrong Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037; or American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.