Loving husband, father and friend, Mark Andrew Landers, 45, of Vancouver, WA, died December 11 in the OHSU Hospital after a vigorous two-year battle with "non-smoker's" lung cancer.

Mark was born January 6, 1969 in Bremerton, Washington. He relocated to Vancouver in 1971 where he attended Vancouver schools from kindergarten through high school, graduating from Columbia River High School in 1987. During high school Mark enjoyed participating in sports where he excelled in wrestling and football. Mark competed in the Washington State Wrestling Finals during his junior and senior years, narrowly losing the State Championship match as a senior.

After high school Mark attended Western Washington University in Bellingham. Seeking broader life experiences Mark joined the U.S. Navy (Seabees) honorably serving a total of six years on Active Duty and in the Active Reserves. Following active duty Mark returned to Vancouver where he completed his Bachelor's degree at Portland State University in the field of Earth/Environmental Science. Mark continued his education at Portland State working toward a Master's degree until Sarah, his first daughter, was born. Mark spent his professional career in business working for C-Tran, Xerox and State Farm Insurance.

Mark is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughter, Sarah (a freshman at Pepperdine University); daughter, Sophie (a freshman at Columbia River High School); his two brothers, Matthew of Olympia, Washington and Paul of Bonney Lake, Washington; and a large extended family.

Mark loved life, family and his many friends. Mark's Number 1 passion in life was spending time with his family. He particularly enjoyed watching "his girls" competing on the soccer field and in track events. Mark also enjoyed biking, skiing, golfing, running, playing with his two dogs and working around the house.

Mark faced his battle with cancer with grace and courage, never once complaining about the ever-increasing pain he endured. He will always be remembered as an easygoing, polite, kind and good-natured man. His infectious smile instilled a "sparkle" in his aura that made him stand out in a crowd. Because of his particularly kindhearted nature people were naturally drawn to him. He touched many lives and will always live in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Services will be December 22 at 2 p.m. at the New Heights Church Main Campus, 7913 NE 58th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98665. Reception following for close friends and family at Royal Oaks Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the Landers' family would like to help a friend in our community, Dawn Horner, who is also battling lung cancer. This fund will help with her medical expenses: Chase Bank account #662578355 or send it to her daughter, Maddie Horner, 19 E 27th Ave., Spokane, WA 99203.