Mark Heatwole, Annandale, VA

A man of faith, devoted husband and father was born December 6, 1943 in Harrisonburg, VA to Roy & Mabel Heatwole. He passed away unexpectedly at home on September 21.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ellen (Showalter), sons Craig (Joy) Oakton, VA, Eric (Michelle) Fort Wayne, IN and Chad  (Susy Bordin) of Pittsford, NY; his siblings: Milton (Mary Ethel), Charlotte Burkholder(Marlin) and Glendon (Cheryl); and 8 grandchildren: Alexis, Avery Call (Grant), Meredith, Seth, Mitchell, John, David & Maria.

Mark worked at the General Accounting Office in Washington D.C until his retirement in 1999.

Following retirement some of his accomplishments included biking across the United States the summer of 1999, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail (2,166 miles) with his wife Ellen, in 2000. He also became an award winning master craftsmen with a focus on lathe turning and most recently became a published author with his book “Two Steps at a Time,” a travel log of their AT hike.

His faith in Jesus Christ was at the center of his life and helped guide and direct his steps in everything he did and how he led those around him. We are grateful because of his salvation we know he is home in heaven.