Mark Steward Obituary

Mark Alan Steward was born February 22, 1957, in The Dalles, Oregon the son of Luther Howard Steward Jr. and Phyllis Susan Steward (Rivard)

Mark grew up in Rufus, Oregon with one brother and three sisters. He spent lots of time riding bikes and playing on or in the river. He and his brother Steve captured most anything that could crawl, walk, swim or fly. They built rock forts, snow forts and tree forts as well as rafts. He always had a dog.

Mark and his family moved to Arlington when he was twelve after the completion of the John Day Dam. He attended Arlington Grade School and High School where he played football, baseball, basketball, and the trumpet in the high school band. He graduated in 1975 and then went to work.

His first job was at SimTag Farms (now known as Three Mile Farms) as an irrigator where he, his brother Steve, and friend Marvin Stewart helped build the circle irrigation system. His last job was at the same farm as a security guard.

In 1978 he married Irene Ellen Davidson, and they made their home in Arlington. In 1982 they had a daughter, Jamie Sue and in 1983 they had a son, Gregory Howard. They went on picnics, camping, boating, and family gatherings.

Mark hunted and fished his entire life, but in later years, he no longer killed for sport. He liked to read, cook, canoe, camp, go fishing and spend time with his grandkids. He felt very fortunate to grow up in a time where he was able to experience and do all he did. His stories are endless.

Mark passed away peacefully at home on February 20, 2025, with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife Irene of almost 47 years, daughter Jamie Sue, son Gregory (Donica), grandkids Leah, Uriah, Javan, Deanna, Sophie and Emery, his mother Phyllis, sister Kathy (Jeff), brother Steven, sister Connie and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Julie and his father Howard.

Words can't express how much he will be missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at 11 AM at the Arlington Church of the Nazarene. A reception will follow immediately after the service. All are welcome to attend.

Sweeney Payton Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please leave your condolence messages for the family below.

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