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Dr. Mark Andrew Franklin, 67, of Chatham, passed away on April 23, 2024, in Springfield, IL. He was born in Springfield, a son of Lamoyne G. and Evelyn (Beatty) Franklin. Mark graduated from Tri-City High School in Buffalo, IL. A gregarious fellow, he served as class President and FFA President. He graduated with a B.A. from Sangamon State University in Springfield, IL, and earned his M.S. Degree at Southern Illinois University. He was the first to earn a Doctor of Public Administration degree at University of Illinois Springfield. He taught at Indiana State University and University of Illinois - Springfield before retiring.

Mark was genuine, kind, patient, adventurous, incredibly optimistic, and had an excellent sense of humor. He taught others to appreciate the beauty of a sunrise and sunset, and the glory of nature around them. He never ceased to remark on a passing flock of geese, or the heron that returns near his home each year. He was an avid Cubs fan. He enjoyed antique cars and perhaps was most proud of his 1964 Chevy truck.

Mark married Kathy DeBarr in 1994. From that moment on Kathy considered herself the luckiest woman in the world. Mark was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Michael. Several siblings, nieces, and nephews survive. If you wish to honor Mark, perform an act of kindness.

A private service will be held later. Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield is in charge of arrangements.