Mark V Vander Vere

Mark V. Vander Vere was born on July 19, 1942 in Waukegan, IL to Everett S. and Antoinette Vander Vere. He was called up to be with his Heavenly Father on February 8, 2022. He attended school in Waukegan and graduated from Waukegan Township High School. After High School he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp from which he was honorably discharged with his tour ending with 35 months unbroken in the Far East. Upon his discharge he worked for a time as a wire drawer for US Steel and later as a die caster for Johnson Motors. He was then offered a chance to drive for a Lodesky Trucking Company and later became terminal manager. He retired from that company after 17 years of service.

He and his wife George Anne moved to Farmington, NM in 1981 where they bought and operated Ann's Restaurant until its closing in 2019. They bought Cindy's Cafe in the early 1990's and operated both restaurants for several years. Mark joined Animas Masonic Lodge in 1984 and worked his way up to be The Grand Master of the State of New Mexico in 2000. He was also very active in the San Juan Shrine Club and hosted their fundraiser breakfast for some 30 plus years. Mark was also a member of the Farmington Elks Lodge, The Farmington York Rite Bodies, Ballut Abyad Shrine and the San Juan Shrine Club.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Everett, his wife of 35 years George Anne and his stepson Augie Ralph. He is survived by his daughter Lori Ralph of Waukegan, IL and stepson Kenneth (Michelle) Ralph of Indianapolis, IN, two granddaughters Erin (Joseph) Ridge, Lauren Ralph, great-grandson Henry Joseph, sister-in-laws Wendy Lerman, Pat Wright and brother-in-law Steve (Annette) Schumacher.

Mark will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was generous with all, and would always find time for both friends and family. He enjoyed fishing on Lake Michigan with his family and friends. Mark was quick to offer encouragement usually in the form of a good story. He dearly loved his wife George Anne and described their marriage as a wonderful adventure. He missed her terribly after she passed.

 Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 11:00am at Animas Masonic Lodge #15 located at 114 N. Behrend Ave., Farmington, NM with William Pogue officiating. There will be a luncheon to follow at the Lodge. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Ballut Abyad Shrine or the charity of your choice.