Mark Degon

Mark Whitney Degon passed away on May 17, 2006 at St. Peter's Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He loved the outdoors -- a sandy beach, a slow- flowing river, a cool forest, or a backyard swimming pool were favorite hangouts. Those who knew him found a friend for life. Mark was born on August 25, 1951 in Worcester, Massachusetts. As a child, he recovered from a bout with polio. He lived in California before moving to Lacey, Washington. He graduated from North Thurston High School. He excelled as a thespian, appearing in several theater productions in high school and at Centralia College. He managed the family business, Pleasant Acres Resort on Long Lake, sold real estate for Century 21, operated his own health food shop and cafe, dabbled in precious metals, and was the sole proprietor of Mardego Imports. He also worked in Oregon. He enjoyed the sun on his back and looked forward each year to a getaway with friends to Mexico. He had an extensive knowledge of the healing properties of natural remedies and freely shared that information with others. He made his home in Winlock, Washington until he returned to Lacey to care for our ailing mother. Mark had a heart of gold and always thought of others before himself. He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Degon. He is survived by his mother, Lorraine, brother, Phillip (Norma) Degon, and sister, Robin (Phil) Youngquist, all of the Olympia/Tumwater area; numerous other relatives; and many friends. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 26, 2006, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Assembly of Lacey, 5615 30th Avenue S.E., Lacey, Washington. He will live in our hearts forever.