Mark Eugene Hudgins

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mark Eugene Hudgins, beloved father, grandfather, veteran, and friend. Mark peacefully took his final breath before he entered eternal rest on July 22, 2026, at 7:58 a.m. at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mark's life was forever changed at the age of 18 when he suffered a small brain injury in a motorcycle accident. This impacted the rest of his life that led to his passing with some health complications.

Mark was born under the surname Pätzer on February 19, 1957, in Pähl, Germany, in Bavaria a municipality in the Weilheim-Schongau district. At the age of two, he was adopted and became Mark Eugene Hudgins, proudly becoming a United States citizen on February 24, 1960, shortly after his third birthday, in Alexandria, Virginia. Mark was immensely proud of both his German heritage and the Hudgins family name. He especially enjoyed telling others that his last name is a city—Hudgins, Virginia—this always brought him immense joy.

Growing up, Mark lived throughout the East Coast before spending time in New Mexico and Southern California. In 1979, he enlisted in the United States Navy and went through the Naval Training Center (NTC) in San Diego, California—serving honorably until 1981. After his military service, Mark made Utah his home. There he met Janie Ardis and together they welcomed the blessing of their daughter that he is survived by, Jessica LeClaire Hudgins (Whalen) of Pleasant Grove, Utah. Mark had four sisters and he proudly passed along the name LeClaire, as his daughter’s middle name, honoring his beloved sister LeClaire and aunt LeClaire. Mark is proud to pass on his legacy, he loves his son-in-law Bo William Daniel Whalen, and cherishes that his blood can continue through his daughter and precious grandson, Trey Miracle William Whalen, who inherited Mark's striking blue eyes and unmistakable double dimples.

Mark loved life and had an appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Anyone fortunate enough to know him remembers his optimism and sense of humor. He had an outgoing personality, quick wit, and contagious smile. His sparkling blue eyes and deep double dimples brightened every room he entered. Mark embraced a carefree lifestyle from his California years, with his long blond hair, flip-flops, shorts, and t-shirts (plaid button-up shirts were his favorite). Even after moving to Utah, he did not let cold weather change his wardrobe, the only difference, each winter he would grow his signature beard and mustache; yet, would shave them off every summer. During the final year and a half of his life, he chose a clean-shaven look and shorter hair, revealing his kind face, and infectious double dimples. He was known for his impeccable manners, always responding with "Yes, ma'am," "No, ma'am," "Yes, sir," and "No, sir." He loved to joke that those were the very first words he learned to say. Mark loved classic rock music, especially The Beach Boys, whom he proudly saw in concert five times. He also had an unforgettable love of food, particularly hot sauce. Anyone who shared a meal with him undoubtedly heard his famous saying, “I may be done, but I’m never finished.”

Mark also cherished his faith. Raised Catholic, he later found a spiritual home in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved his calling of counting attendance during sacrament meeting, with his signature table beside a picture of Germany. After counting each attendee he was known to say, "I wrote down the number, because I cannot remember how many I counted.” It was a simple responsibility that brought him great joy.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the remarkable caregivers at the Midtown Manor Skilled Nursing Facility for the love, dignity, and compassionate care they provided during the final year and a half of Mark's life. They also wish to sincerely thank the physicians, nurses, and staff at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, whose kindness and respect brought comfort during his final two weeks there. Following his passing at the hospital, Mark was honored with a moving Veteran Honor Walk. In an American flag-draped gurney, he was escorted through hallways lined with family members, friends, fellow patients, hospital staff, and visitors standing silently in tribute after the announcement of his passing echoed throughout the hospital with taps being played. It was a fitting farewell to a man who proudly served his country. Thank you Mark Eugene Hudgins for your service and your presence here on Earth, you are missed and will always be remembered,

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mark's memory to The Salvation Army, an organization close to his heart. His daughter, son-in-law, and grandson continue to volunteer with The Salvation Army and honor Mark by ringing bells for the iconic Red Kettle Campaign, raising funds to their motto, “Doing the most good.” Every donation you give to The Salvation Army makes a huge impact by helping those in need navigate food insecurity, unexpected job loss, disaster relief, providing shelter, housing instability, utility/bill assistance, and bringing hope to individuals in need. (www.salvationarmyusa.org)

The family also encourages everyone to honor Mark's memory by thanking a veteran and supporting efforts to end veteran homelessness. Please join forces in order to help with Community Solutions Homes Campaign, the Rapid Results Institute, the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the National League of Cities, the Road Home, and the Salvation Army to create safe places and a warm place to sleep.

Though Mark's earthly journey has ended, his laughter, unwavering optimism, kind heart, and love for others will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew him. Fair winds and following seas, Mark. You served your country well, loved your family deeply, and left this world better than you found it. You will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.

Mark’s Funeral Service

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

2:00 PM

Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park

17111 South Camp Williams Road (1700 West)

Bluffdale, Utah 84065

Funeral Home: Memorial Mortuaries and Cemeteries