FAYETTEVILLE — Mark Henry Thiessen

passed away Sept. 12, 2020, after a brief stay at Willard Walker Hospice House. He was born March 23, 1952, in Washington, D.C., to Lorraine “Larry” and Patrick Thiessen.

Before retiring, Mark was a packaging consultant for Love Box Co., and an award-winning packaging designer. He was an avid reader, poetry writer, storyteller, and drummer. Mark devoted time daily to studying the Bible, listening to Gregorian chants, and watching the birds. He and his wife, Paula, loved spending time on the lake, watching old movies and baseball, and creating an aviary in their yard.

Over 40 years ago, Mark fed a cardinal (he named The Pope) who would come when he whistled. Now, 150 of The Pope’s descendants, along with many other bird species, visit the feeders and birdbaths, especially at sunset. Mark also enjoyed his daily morning “hot chocolate” drive. While on his drive, he visited with neighbors, dog treats in hand for their dogs.

Mark’s family and friends remember the twinkle in his eyes, his laugh, and his wit. He was a special one-of-akind soul, always ready with a helping hand for any person in need.

He is survived by his wife, Paula; daughters Pauline and Leeta; sisters Evan Stumpf (Richard), Chris McDonnold (Mark) and Anne Owen (John); many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Pat Thiessen.

A funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 1 p.m. The service is private and will be live-streamed. Family and friends are invited to join us via www.facebook.com/saintjosephfayetteville/posts/5844614122222716 (Viewers do not have to use Facebook to see the video, just follow the link.) Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund, 1722 N. Starr Dr., Fayetteville, Ark., 72701. Arrangements are under the direction of Moore’s Chapel. To leave an online tribute, visit www.mooresfuneralchapel.com .