Mark E. Bartusek

Mark Edward Bartusek, 66, died at home with family at his side on September 12, 2024, of cancer. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 19, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, West Des Moines. Interment to follow at Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18, at Iles Westover Chapel, Des Moines, with 6:30 p.m. set aside as a time for sharing comments about Mark.
He was born October 16, 1957, to Robert and Janice (Hummel) Bartusek. Mark attended Dowling High School and earned a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Iowa.
Mark married Lisa (Hintze) Bartusek on May 23, 1981. Together, they embarked on a journey of love, partnership, and family, welcoming three daughters, Meghan, Lauren, and Amanda. Mark was a devoted father, known for coaching his daughters' sports teams, presence at their countless activities and for the unforgettable family hiking trips in Colorado. More recently, he treasured his time with his three grandkids and loved being their Grandpa and "Beempa."
Mark made a career as an optician, retiring in 2018. He loved Iowa Hawkeye Football, collecting Major League autographed baseballs, and traveling. He will be remembered for his positive, thoughtful, selfless attitude and humor, and the way that he always maintained nicknames for those closest to him. Our "Ace" had a great ability to make others smile and laugh.
He fought his battle against cancer with faith, humility, a positive attitude, and never lost his sense of humor. He was always kind and compassionate to his caregivers, and ultimately concerned only about the wellbeing of others, especially family. The family appreciates the many medical professionals who aided Mark, and the support of friends and family on this journey.
Mark is survived by his wife, Lisa; three daughters, Meghan (Joe) Mitros, Lauren (Michael) Caleb, and Amanda Bartusek; three grandchildren, Drake, Cortlan, and Penelope; his sister Mary (Cindy Page) Bartusek; sister-in-law Mary Lynn Bartusek; and many nieces, nephews and friends and relatives he considered dear. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Janice, and brothers, Jeff and Steve.
We could not have asked for a better husband, father and grandfather, and will miss Mark every day. His request was that we celebrate his life and "have some fun," and his memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.
Memorial contributions in Mark's honor can be made to Food Bank of Iowa (foodbankiowa.org) or Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org).
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