Jason Michael Marks

Jason Michael Marks, 50, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, in his hometown of Sullivan, Missouri, where he had lived a life full of laughter, kindness, and music. Born on June 18, 1973, to his parents, James “Tom” and Cathy (Carey) Marks, Jason's early years were spent in the warm and close-knit communities of Bourbon and Sullivan, where he was a familiar face and a friend to many.

A proud graduate of Sullivan High School, Class of 1991, he enjoyed playing baseball as a youth and he spent his summers playing for the American Legion team. Jason's journey into adulthood saw him venture to St. Louis, where he began his career with Local 2. Despite the pull of the city, Jason's heart remained in Sullivan, leading him back home to work alongside his family at Jerry's Furniture. This return was not just a work-related, but also a devotion to his roots and the people he cherished.

In 1997, Jason embraced the most treasured role of his life as a father to his beloved daughter, Madeline. The joy and light of his life, Madeline was the center of his world. Jason believed she could do anything and made sure she realized she could as well.  Whether it be playing the guitar, singing, supporting her idea of clothes to express who she was, what have you, he poured his heart into being the best father he could be, offering a boundless supply of love, care, and support as he raised her through life's ups and downs.

Jason's interests reflected the warmth and vibrancy of his personality. A self-taught guitarist, he found solace and joy in the strings of his guitar, a hobby that was both a personal passion and a source of entertainment for those around him. His love for laughter and merriment shone through in the home movies he created, capturing the goofy side of a man who could always be counted on to bring a smile to anyone's face.

His relationship with Madeline was one of mutual admiration and shared interests. Together, they would while away the hours, whether they were laughing at funny movies, engaging in friendly competition over video games, or enjoying leisurely shopping trips to the mall. These simple pleasures forged memories that Madeline will treasure forever.

A passionate football fan, Jason's enthusiasm for the game was infectious, and his reactions to the on-screen action were a spectacle in themselves. He would often be found animatedly cheering or playfully scolding the TV during a game, much to the amusement of his family and friends.

Travel was a source of joy for Jason, especially when accompanied by his beloved grandparents. He spoke fondly of the trips they took together, and the family excursion to Florida with his mom Cathy, daughter Madeline, her significant other Aaron and their daughter Violet in the summer before his passing was a highlight that brought him immense happiness.

Jason's sense of humor was legendary, a trait that endeared him to all. He was the kind of friend who could lift spirits with a well-timed joke or a silly antic. But beyond the laughter, he was also fiercely protective and endlessly kind, especially when it came to those he loved. His support for Madeline's dreams and needs was unwavering, a testament to the depth of his love and the strength of his character. 

Jason is survived by his beloved daughter, Madeline Marks and significant other, Aaron Schmelz of Sullivan, MO; his granddaughter, Violet; a bonus daughter, Olivia White of Sullivan; his mother, Cathy Schatz and husband, Terry of Sullivan and father, Tom Marks; three siblings:  Travis Bryan and wife, Olivia, Keith Bryan, all of Sullivan and Jillian Martin and husband Derrick of Cuba, MO; his grandmother, Viva Lou Carey of Sullivan; aunts & uncles:  Debbie Senters and husband, Brad, Tammy Rohrer and husband Brian, Christine Davis, Alan Carey and wife, Patti, and Randy Carey and wife, Cindy all of Sullivan; and numerous cousins and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jerry Carey and great grandparents, Howard & Goldie Key.

Services will be 7:00 PM, Thursday, January 18, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Dudley officiating.  Cremation will take place following the service.

Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM prior to the service, Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jason’s memory to Halo for Animals or Life House Youth Center of Sullivan.

Friends may share condolences online with Jason’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.