Mark Preston Sumner

"May the holy ones lead you on the path to the spirit world, and may they embrace you with their love and protection."
Mark Preston Sumner lost his courageous battle with cancer, passing away in his home in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 17, 2024. Mark was born November 18, 1954, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Margie and Frank Sumner. The family moved to Grants, New Mexico, in 1963, where his father opened a grocery store. Mark often helped in the store after school, enjoying a lot of Coca-Cola! Mark attended Grants High School where he excelled in football, track and band, playing the trumpet, graduating in 1973. Mark lost his father, Frank, in 1972, and he and his mother, Margie returned to live in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Mark went on to work for a time in the uranium mines and quickly gained great respect for the industry and those who worked in it. He often would talk about the experience he gained. After a time in the mines, Mark decided to continue his education, studying technical drawing, drafting and design and went on to become a draftsman, utilizing his creative abilities.
Mark married Jacque Tye in February 1982. Together they built a pottery business which Mark was very passionate about. Mark employed the skills of several Navajo Sand Painters in putting the final touches to his product. He quickly became friends with them and remained close friends until his death. On the weekends you could find Mark at the Albuquerque Flea Market, selling his wares and making new friends. Mark and Jacque divorced after a fifteen-year marriage, with Mark continuing the pottery business on his own. Mark worked in his business for over 40 years, up until a month before his passing.
Mark was a kind, compassionate, and caring individual. He looked out for his friends and family, lending a helping hand and understanding heart whenever needed. Mark was strong willed and determined, doing things "Mark's way". He had a quick and genuine smile that could light up a room and a strong embrace for those he cared deeply about. Mark loved his little dog, Bitsie, and the Dallas Cowboys. If the Cowboys were playing, he was watching, cheering them on, even with a loss. Mark enjoyed a quick fishing trip when time allowed, a cold beer, and a good movie.
Mark was preceded in death by his father, Frank, his mother Margie grandparents, John and Ruth Sumner, Howard and Gladys Hensley, and his nephew David. Mark is survived by his sister, Carol Deckard, of Albuquerque, NM, his brother, Don (Sandy), of Las Cruces, NM, and his loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mark also left behind many friends from his personal and business life. Mark will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Mark.
"Before me peaceful, behind me peaceful, under me peaceful, over me peaceful, all around me peaceful."