MARK BETHEL
Mark Bethel is the son of Patricia and Dr. David Bethel of Marshalltown. Mark is a graduate of East Marshall High School, Marshalltown Community College and the Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago, Illinois. While at Worsham College of Mortuary Science Mark was awarded with the Worsham College of Mortuary Science Alumni Scholarship Award. The recipient of this scholarship is selected by the college faculty and is presented to the student who most demonstrates both an unwavering professional attitude and behavior throughout their education. Following graduation, Mark returned to Marshalltown with the desire to serve his family, friends and community. Mark is the proud father of two daughters: Grace and Elizabeth. Grace is currently five years old and a kindergartner at Fisher Elementary School in Marshalltown. Lizzie turned two years old in March of 2011 and is fast on the heels of her sister.

Mark’s true passion in life is serving his family, his friends and others with whatever their needs may be. Growing up with both of his parents serving in the medical field, Mark learned first-hand, the honor, value and responsibility of serving others, especially at the time of their highest need, when they have lost a loved one. On August 13, 2004, Mark was awarded with the “Lifesaving with Valor Award” by Governor Tom Vilsack. Mark received this award for his efforts while saving the life of an individual involved in a burning motor vehicle accident without regard for his own personal safety.

During his free time Mark enjoys spending time with his family, supporting Grace and Lizzie with their many activities, fishing at Green Castle Lake with the girls, vacations, golfing with his friends, and reading.

Mark is a member of the Iowa Funeral Directors Association, the National Funeral Directors Association and The American Society of Embalmers. He also serves on the Advisory Board for the Marshalltown Chapter of the Compassionate Friends and is a past member of the Board of Directors for Iowa River Hospice. Mark is a team member of IMORT (Iowa Mortuary Operations Response Team) within the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner and is a Certified, Registered Medicolegal Death Investigator by the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators with plans to become Board Certified during 2011.