Mark Edward Hegman

On March 14, 1951- Mark Edward Hegman was born at St. Joseph's Hospital in Houston, Texas to Otto Edward and Martha Bernice Hegman. As the second child, he joined Kurt Jeffrey Hegman and in 1954 was joined by the youngest and last brother Christopher Gordon. This band of 5 started in Houston and South Houston. Their shared adventures took them from Texas to Tripoli, Libya---Statesboro, Georgia---New Orleans, Louisiana and all of the destinations in between. They were a traveled family.
It was during Mark's time at Lamar University that he was invited by Uncle Sam for service during the time of the Vietnam War on the USS Independence as a Photographer's Mate to serve in the Mediterranean. After service to his Country, of which he was SO proud, he attended Sam Houston State University in pursuit of a degree in art. Anyone that met Mark knows he was a born artist. There was no medium that he not only practiced but mastered. Illustration, painting, photography, sculpture, carpentry and pottery, his artistic talent knew no bounds. He was a creator of so many beautiful and amazing things.
During his time pursuing his degree he also pursued Lynda Stafford. To condense a beautiful 45-year love story, they met country/western dancing at Gilley's in Pasadena, Texas and before long included ballroom and square dancing. They married in 1979 and welcomed their first daughter, Leslie Kaye in July 1981. The family would complete in 1988 with the birth of Heidie Marie while they lived in Channelview, Texas. A true renaissance man, Mark tried his hand in a few trades in his early years. For example, pipe fitter, operator and selling insurance. Eventually, he landed in his 30-year career as an instrument/electrical designer for chemical and refinery plants.
Though career was very important and an integral part of his life, Mark had so many joys and passions that defined him. He enjoyed artistic endeavors like painting and pottery, but also sailing and fishing. He was a member of Galena Park #1290 Masonic Lodge. Most notably in the last 20 years was his time and dedication to Texas History and historical reenactments. Mark was dedicated to not only the community of reenactors, but served as Texas Army Colonel Mark Hegman, Knights of Texas. He was honored to always share the importance of history with new generations. He truly valued imparting to each young person their shared history in this great State of Texas. He was asked to portray General Sam Houston in the battle reenactment at San Jacinto -and on partiality of the author- was the best Sam Houston since the original.
Of all of these joys in life, from childhood to young family to seasoned historical sage, there was nothing that brought him greater happiness than being an Opa. (German word for Grandpa) Being Opa to James, Lillian, Bellah and MJ was the pride and joy of his life.
Mark Edward Hegman went to Heaven on June 3, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Lynda Stafford Hegman; his daughters Leslie Hegman Sproat and her husband Mikey, Heidie Hegman Hardin and her husband Montana. His grandchildren James Sproat, Lillian Sproat, Bellah Hardin and Montana Hardin Jr. (MJ). In addition, many dearly beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, countless relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his brothers Kurt and Chris and his parents Otto and Martha. In the words of his great nephew, Illyas Azhar: "He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and member of our blessed family. He's left an impression on everyone's heart and will be greatly missed."
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ the King Episcopal Church, 19330 Pinehurst Trail Drive, Atascocita, Texas 77346.