Mark Thomas Grant

Mark Thomas Grant, 78 years old of Chicago, IL. passed away on Monday July 21 after battling ill health for some time.

Beloved son to the late James ("Bud") Grant and the late Mary Webb, brother to Jim Grant was born August 20, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pa.

Mark is survived by his former wife and devoted friend, Lisa, mother of his 3 children ,Matthew (Lisa), their two children Parker and Henry, Jessica ,(her son Luciano) and Christopher. His firstborn Michelle resides in Philadelphia.

In 1965, during the Vietnam War, Mark served in the US Marine Corps.

Deployed to South Vietnam as a Sentry Dog Handler, he patrolled the perimeters of bases and installations relying on the dog's sense to detect enemy movement. He served his country honorably until discharged in 1969.

Upon returning to Philadelphia, he quickly rose through the ranks of Television Advertising bringing him to live and work in Chicago, San Francisco, New York and eventually back to Chicago.

He led the Sales Division at ABC-TV, when in 1986, it was acquired by Capital Cities Communications creating Capital Cities/ABC-TV until it was later acquired by the Walt Disney Company in 1996.

Along with his love of Dogs, Mark developed a love of horses. When settled in Burr Ridge, IL. he joined the Oak brook Polo team as a complete novice practicing until he could play in a match with international teams on Sunday afternoons. His family was always there cheering him on.

Mark was a proud father who loved his family fiercely. His happiest times were with his children by his side on adventures at the beach ,the mountains, the park , coaching little league from time to time, hiking with his German Shepard dogs, sharing a good Italian meal with a Billy Joel tune playing in the background.

His oldest grandson now 6, (Parker) calls him Pop Pop – He would wait with his lil brother Henry (3) at the window watching him drive up the driveway. Always A fistful or quarters in one hand and donuts or some forbidden treat in his other. the Fun visit with Pop Pop began.

He talked about them to anyone who would listen, proudly showing their photos repeatedly.

He was loved immensely by his family and many lifelong friends who often said he was 'just like family to them.'

Rising above a tough childhood in North Philadelphia, serving his country loyally in wartime he worked hard to build a successful life beyond expectations. An indomitable spirit who fought the good fight until the end.

Semper Fi…May you Rest in peace, Mark.