Mark A. Whitbeck

Mark A. Whitbeck, 68, of Moline, Illinois, died Thursday, December 7, 2023, at home.

A gathering to celebrate Mark’s life will be 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 7, at Riverside Garden Center, 3450 5^th Avenue, Moline, with Vietnam Veterans of America Quad Cities Chapter 299 presenting military honors at 1:00 p.m.  Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, under the direction of Trimble Funeral Home.  Memorials may be made to the family for a fund to be established in Mark’s memory.

Mark Allen Whitbeck was born January 23, 1955, in Quonset Point, Rhode Island, the son of Theodore and Marillyn (Engvall) Whitbeck.  He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and went on to work over two decades for the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Department. 

In 2004, Mark found love in the arms of Kathy Umstattd, and their bond was a testament to the strength of true companionship. His love extended beyond the two of them, embracing Kathy's daughter, Victoria, and her daughters as if they were his own. Mark had previously been married to Susan Hansen.

An avid angler, Mark found solace and joy in the art of fishing. Fond memories of his youth were woven with tales of casting lines well into the evening and spending quality time at his grandparents' house on the Rock River, engaged in spirited poker games that lingered into the night.

Mark's laughter was infectious, fueled by a great sense of humor that endeared him to those fortunate enough to share in his joy. Though sweet-natured, Mark was also the steadfast pillar of his family, providing unwavering support and strength. An animal lover, he found delight in the company of his pets and his granddogs. He was also an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Bears.

Above all, Mark held a deep conviction that family was paramount. His proudest title was that of "Papa" to his four cherished granddaughters. His legacy is one of love, laughter, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to those he held dear. Mark's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were privileged to know and love him.

He is survived by his loving partner, Kathy Umstattd; his daughter, Victoria Umstattd and her fiancé, Jared Smet; four granddaughters, Cali, Aubrey, Avreigh and Kinsley; two sisters, Christi Steiner of Colona, Illinois, and Laura (Oscar) Rico of Tucson, Arizona; his uncle, Tom Engvall; nieces and nephews, Joel (Shelly) Vroman, Vanessa (Brian) DeRiemacker, Anthony Patino, and Emmanda (Adam) Merrill; two great-nephews, Devon and Garrett; and a host of cousins and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Fernando Patino.

The family invites friends to share stories and condolences at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.