Mark Swearingin Obituary, Death – Mark William Swearingin, aged 66, peacefully passed away on September 14, 2023, in the comfort of his Lawson, MO home, surrounded by his devoted family. He courageously battled ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) for four years. Mark’s roots were in Kansas City, MO, where he was born, and he spent his formative years in both Kansas City and Lawson.
At the tender age of 13, Mark embarked on a journey of hard work, dedicating his summers and weekends to his father’s enterprise, Swearingin Construction. Following his high school graduation in Lawson, he pursued a business degree at Missouri Western State College. After gaining experience in the banking industry, he returned to his father’s business, specializing in pouring concrete foundations. In 2001, Mark and his brother-in-law co-founded Swearingin Concrete Foundations, a venture he cherished deeply. He found fulfillment in every aspect of the business, from hands-on fieldwork to the satisfaction of creating top-notch concrete walls and foundations.
Mark, the son of Larry and Anita Swearingin, found love early in life when he met Valerie Benson in high school. Their love story culminated in a joyful marriage in 1978, and they celebrated over 45 years together, blessed with two wonderful daughters. Mark’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he has found eternal peace in heaven. His unshakable faith led him to pray for deliverance from the ravages of ALS, whether it be through miraculous healing or passage to heaven, a sentiment reflected in 2 Samuel 2:22, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.”
Mark had an affinity for the outdoors, relishing walks and hikes wherever he could find them, whether it was the bustling streets of New York City or serene wilderness trails. He believed that the ability to rise in the morning and walk was a true blessing. One of his cherished hiking spots was the Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico. Mark was an avid reader, with a preference for non-fiction, and had a deep love for travel, music, history, nature, and the occasional margarita.
He leaves behind his loving parents, Anita and Larry; his devoted wife, Valerie; two daughters, Rachel Swearingin and Sarah (Joseph) Decker; and three adored grandsons, Maxwell, Jameson, and Turner. Mark is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Andy) Embrey, as well as a circle of aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews. A visitation to celebrate Mark’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home – Lawson Chapel. The funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20 at Lawson United Christian Presbyterian Church, followed by interment at Old Union Cemetery.
