Bessie Mae Mark, 90, Fort Wayne, went to be with the Lord at 10:18 p.m. on Wednesday, September 20, 2017, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. She was born in Swayzee on March 9, 1927, to Almon P. and Ethel A. (Thompson) Mowrer. Bessie was married to Harry D. Mark, who preceded her in death on March 4, 1975.
A graduate of Swayzee High School, Bessie was the Vice President and served as a member of the Board of Directors at Grant County State Bank for over 40 years. She was a lifetime member of Swayzee Christian Church and a member of The Chapel in Fort Wayne.
The greatest joy of Bessie’s life were her grandchildren. She loved playing piano, listening to music, going to the lakes, singing in the church choir, and fishing with her husband. Bessie was a wonderful cook and made the most delicious sweet potatoes during the holidays.
Bessie was also an avid sports fan, with her favorite teams being IU basketball and Chicago Cubs. She also enjoyed watching golf, being outdoors, and was the absolute happiest when spending time with her family or helping anyone or anything. Her compassion was far-reaching and she had a heart for animals. Most of all, Bessie was a humble and devoted follower of Christ.
She will be missed by her daughter, Melissa (Michael) Rice, Fort Wayne; two grandchildren, Mark Rice and Michaela Rice, both from Fort Wayne; granddog, Sierra; brother, Bill Mowrer; brother-in-law, Albert “Dutch” Voorheis; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Evelyn, Melvada, Mary, and Helen, as well as three granddogs, Scooter, Odie, and Andy.
The family will receive visitors from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26, 2017, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee, IN.
Services to celebrate Bessie’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27, 2017, at the funeral home with Pastor Rick Hawks and Pastor David Rogers officiating. Burial will follow at Thrailkill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer’s Association, 50 E. 91st St., Ste. 100, Indianapolis, IN 46209-4830 and Marion-Grant County Humane Society, P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.