Mark Parris Peterson's Obituary
Mark Parris Peterson, 77, the sweetest man in the world, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on May 23, 2025, in Kaysville, Utah. Our beloved husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother, teacher, and friend had the biggest heart. He lived a life of devotion, love, and service — to his family, his faith, his neighbors, and his students. Mark touched countless lives for good.
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, and raised mostly in Taylor Utah, Mark grew up with a strong sense of hard work, purpose, and compassion that would guide him throughout his life. He lived in Iran twice and really treasured his time there. He has many cherished Iranian friendships and memories.
Mark valued education, earning his Bachelor's degree from Weber State College before continuing on to receive a Master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Utah. His passion for language and communication led him to a fulfilling career as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher at Weber State University. For over three decades, Mark shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with students from around the world. He found joy in helping others find their voice and navigate new cultures through language.
At the heart of Mark’s life was his family. He loved his wife Ginger. He was the proud father of eight children: Jamie Peterson, Windsor Smith, Taji Bagley, London Brown, Roxanne Jones, Onyx, Savannah Gonzales, and Quinn Peterson. His legacy continues through his 15 grandchildren, including four very special grandchildren that he helped raise: Quincey, Sydney, and Tyrese Carpenter and Tatianna Finn. He also leaves behind his siblings Melvin Peterson, Melanie Clifford, and Lance Peterson.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Mary Fern Peterson, and his sister Mary A'lana Smith.
Mark was a devoted, lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served faithfully in many callings throughout his life. As a young man, Mark served a two-year mission to Germany where he developed and strengthened his lifelong dedication to faith and service.
Those who knew Mark will remember him as one of the most loving, caring, and understanding individuals they had ever met. His capacity for love knew no bounds—he gave freely of himself to those around him with patience and kindness that left lasting impressions on all who crossed his path.
We will hold an open house memorial for him on June 7th from 6-8 pm. It will be and the Windsor Farms chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 3271 West 2550 South in West Haven
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