Chris T. Marckmann

Chris Tyler Marckmann, 40, passed away from complications of a mitochondrial disorder on Monday, September 7, 2015 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. He was born in Creston, Iowa on May 17, 1975 to Marlin and Sharon (Anderson) Marckmann.

Chris was baptized in infancy at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fontanelle, IA. He attended weekly Sunday school as well as Sunday church services as a child. He was a lifelong Lutheran and a regular attendee prior to his illness.

During his youth he was a 4-H member and exhibited a blue ribbon table place- setting project at the Iowa State Fair. In 1996, he graduated from Ruby Van Meter School. Prior to being diagnosed with a mitochondrial disorder in 1997, he did volunteer clerical work at the Iowa Civil Rights Commission.

Chris’ interests were varied: he enjoyed going to the library; watching movies; playing video games, checkers and UNO; swimming/aquatic therapy; dining out; and attending family gatherings. He liked the Peanuts Gang characters, word search puzzles, calendars, holidays, Norman Rockwell art, zip codes and Spanish words. He enjoyed riding in the John Deere combine and tractor cabs with his father and the many fun and educational community outings provided by his mother.

At one time, Chris had an extensive collection of Yellow Pages phone books as well as state maps, all of which provided him great pleasure. He thoroughly enjoyed listening to all types of music – from classical to country. Chris was especially fond of music from the 70’s and 80’s and was often observed keeping time to the rhythm and beat with his forefinger and/or his right foot.

Although Chris was physically unable to contribute to our world during the past 18 years, his personal worth was reflected in the traits of compassion, patience and gratitude that he instilled in those who provided his daily care along with the knowledge they gained about autism and mitochondrial disorders.

Chris’ family sincerely appreciates the kindness and personal care provided by Chris’ dedicated personnel from Unity Point at Home, Consumer Choices Option and Link Case Management.

Chris is survived by his parents, Marlin and Shari Marckmann of Greenfield and Des Moines, IA.; his siblings, Todd (Sarah) Marckmann of Des Moines and Brandee (Bill Mooney) Marckmann of San Francisco, CA.; nieces and nephews, Katie, Ellie and Josh Marckmann and Henry Mooney; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Herman and Alma (Heuckendorf) Marckmann of Greenfield and Arnold and Phyllis (Dunn) Anderson of Ames.

Chris’ family would appreciate receiving personal comments about the ways Chris impacted individuals during their time of knowing and/or caring for him.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 600 6th Avenue in Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Chris’ parents for establishment of a fitting tribute for their son. Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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