Koder, Mark Alan 1957-2024

KODER, HEUCKENDORF, FORCK, CASSADY, HIEMSTRA, ROAM, HUDSON

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 6/16/2024 at 08:20:36

Mark Alan Koder
January 31, 1967 - April 2, 2024

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Mark Alan Koder, 57, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

Born on January 31, 1967, to Jerry Koder Sr. and Dorothy Elaine Koder, Mark grew up embracing the beauty of nature which played a pivotal role in shaping his character and achievements. A graduate of Prairie City High School, he distinguished himself as an award-winning athlete and a star football player for the Prairie City Plainsmen. Mark’s profound connection to the natural world fueled his athletic discipline and success, drawing inspiration from his explorations and the landscapes he cherished.

Mark’s knack for fixing things was well known; his ability to repair the irreparable with minimal resources was nothing short of astonishing. His career as a millwright at Kane’s Construction and Cargill was cut short by a severe car accident on July 7, 1997, which resulted in life-altering injuries, including a frontal lobe brain injury. Despite these challenges, Mark's indomitable spirit saw him relearn basic skills, transforming his life’s work into helping others discover their relationship with nature and their own spirit.

Passionate about the outdoors, Mark enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, and quiet walks through the woods—experiences he cherished sharing with his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. These excursions became sacred teachings, imbuing in them a deep respect for the natural world and its impact on their personal growth.

Mark had a unique ability to make everyone around him feel safe and loved; his presence transformed every encounter into a profound experience. His affinity with children and animals was remarkable, often leaving onlookers amazed at the natural connection he seemed to forge effortlessly.

Mark is survived by his two sons, Mathew Alan Koder (Carly Heuckendorf), of Dallas, Texas, and Dustin Alan Koder (Beth Forck), and their three children Caleb, Karson, and Kolt of Newton, Iowa. His mother, Dorothy Koder (Arnold Cassady); his sister Cathy Hiemstra (Bud) and family; brother Jeff Koder (Julie) and family, and Jill Koder and family; and his sister Stephanie Roam and family. Mark also leaves behind numerous uncles, aunts, nieces , and nephews.

Mark is preceded in Death by his father Jerry Koder Sr, brother Jerry Koder Jr, grandparents John and Dorothy Hudson. Grandparents Elvin and Catheryne Koder, and nephew Gage Koder.

Mark's life, though marked by trials, was a testament to the strength of the human spirit. The profound impact of a loving heart and living in harmony with the world around us.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM CDT on April 21, 2024, at the Colfax Historical Society.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Mark, please visit our Tree Store.
Events
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Celebration Of Life
Sunday, April 21, 2024
1:00PM
Colfax Historical Building
500 North Walnut Street
Colfax, IA 50054
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View Tribute Book ~ The Coburn Funeral Home, Colfax, Iowa 02 April 2024.