Mark Youngsma is cherished by his friends and family and he will be missed deeply by everyone who knew him.

Mark came as a welcomed arrival to his parents, Doug and Denise Youngsma, in the spring of 1985. He was the younger brother to Denise's first son, James Hundtoft, and Mark's birth was followed by those of his sisters, Nicki and Ashley Youngsma.

Throughout his childhood, Mark was busy playing basketball, soccer, participating in Boy Scouts and playing percussion in band. When he was ten years old, he and his family lost his mother to cancer. Several years later, Mark's father remarried and his family now includes stepmother Dolores Youngsma and stepsisters Karen Brown and Michelle Flores.

Mark always had an artistic gift. As a teenager, he began to cultivate his creative skills. After graduating high school he pursued a degree at Western Oregon University. At college, he continued to refine his talents. Constantly doodling, drawing, painting and sculpting, he excelled in his academic specialties and he seemed to possess an infinite energy for producing works of art. He received multiple scholarships and awards for his achievements, sold several works to local patrons, and donated various pieces for fundraising events organized by student organizations.

Mark earned a Bachelor of Science in Art with a minor in Art History in June of 2009. His artistic specialties included painting and print making. When on break from his studies, he worked as a coordinator in the student art gallery at Western Oregon University, as well as a professional painter.

Mark was a caring, compassionate and thoughtful individual who left his mark everywhere he went. His artistic ability amazed his colleagues, his determination inspired family and friends, and his kindness touched those who knew him. His presence was a blessing in our lives and his absence will be felt by all.