Meet Mark
My wife, Deborah, and I were married in 1990. We have raised 5 young adults who are all active members of their community, with 2 sons in the Army Reserves, and 3 of our children involved in the funeral industry. All of our children were raised living above a funeral home. The family understands that death happens at the least opportune moment. They have all learned the importance of accurate paperwork, providing compassionate services, and how to use resources efficiently & respectfully.
(Mark A. Symonds, Sr., wife Deborah and Mark Jr., Luke, Penelope & Rebecca).
Together, we model to our children a respect for human life and grief facilitation for the bereaved. As a family, we have served the community in Lake County and Chicago as active participants in schools, colleges, churches, and public offices. We all share a love for animals, camping, church and community events.
(Deborah, Mark A. Symonds, Sr., Luke, Rebecca, Penelope with Josiah, and Mark Symonds Jr.)
I have a degree in Mortuary Science from Chicago City Wide and I have been a Licensed Funeral Director in Illinois since 1991. I am a proud owner of a family run funeral home that has taught me how to passionately honor life, how to learn from tragedies and the need to speak out to the community in order to build a safer future. I have developed valued relationship with members of the community and I demonstrate professionalism, leadership, and the healthy exchanges of ideas. My leadership, experience and dependability seamlessly connect families, professionals and the community during times of loss.
Beyond the technical aspects of death investigations, I honor the lives of the departed by uncovering their narratives—their joys, struggles, and contributions. Every individual deserves to be remembered, and I will ensure that their stories are heard, even the story told in death. No one expects to need a coroner. But when you do, you will want a coroner who is passionate about life, one who is meticulous with details, and one who can professionally display empathy while communicating delicate information.
