Mark Edison Tackett

Mark E. Tackett, age 64, passed away at home on August 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Mark proudly served his country for 20 years in the United States Navy, retiring as a Petty Officer Second Class (E-5). His two decades of military service were an important part of his life and reflected his dedication and commitment to his country. His family will forever take great pride in his years of honorable service.

Mark was also a third-generation ironworker and a proud member of Iron Workers Local 172, carrying on a family tradition that spanned three generations. His work as an ironworker reflected the same strength, dedication, and work ethic that characterized so much of his life. Being part of Local 172 was more than a career—it connected Mark to a family legacy and to the brotherhood of men and women who shared his trade.

While Mark was proud of his service and the work he did throughout his life, there was so much more to the man behind the uniform and hard hat. Joyful, intelligent, and genuinely interested in the people around him, Mark had the ability to befriend just about anyone. Whether someone had known him for years or had only recently crossed his path, conversation came easily. His warmth and outgoing nature made people feel welcome, and friendships seemed to find him wherever he went.

Mark was endlessly curious and seemed to have a piece of random trivia or knowledge for nearly every occasion. You could never be quite sure what fact he might pull out during a conversation, and his family came to know and love this as simply part of being around Mark.

He also knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Mark loved music, fishing, and stamp collecting, had a well-known appreciation for a good buffet, and found a special kind of satisfaction in discovering a great bargain. Finding a good deal wasn’t simply about saving a few dollars—the thrill of the find was half the fun, and there was always a little extra joy in knowing he’d gotten something for a bargain. Music was another source of happiness throughout his life, something he enjoyed and shared with those around him.

Above everything else, however, was Mark’s love for his family. His family was the most important part of his life, and the love he had for them could be seen in the life he lived and the memories they created together. His greatest legacy will not be measured by his years of military service, the structures he helped build, the stamps he collected, the fish he caught, the trivia he knew, or the bargains he found, but by the people he loved and the lives he touched.

Mark is survived by his loving spouse, Laura Blankenship; his children, Jennifer (Eric) Basiger, Elizabeth Tackett, Carl (Brittany) Tackett, Joseph (Samantha) Blankenship, and Jeremy (Haylee) Blankenship; his mother, Sandra Sealock; and his sister, Connie (Joe) Nahay. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and his brothers and sisters of Iron Workers Local 172.

Mark was preceded in death by his son, Jeffery Blankenship; his father, Carl Tackett; his stepfather, James Sealock; his brother, Robert Tackett; and his beloved fishing buddy, “Big Bob.”

Those fortunate enough to have known Mark will remember a man who found reasons to enjoy life—a favorite song, a good meal, a day spent fishing, an interesting fact, a new stamp for his collection, a bargain too good to pass up, or simply a conversation with someone who might soon become a friend. Most of all, they will remember his joyful spirit and the tremendous love he had for his family.

The stories about Mark will continue to be told. The music he loved will bring back memories, the random facts he shared will unexpectedly come to mind, and a particularly good bargain or buffet may always bring a smile and the thought, “Mark would have loved this.”

A Celebration of Life honoring Mark will be held on Sunday, August 23, 2026 from 2:00pm - 5:00pm at the NEWCOMER SOUTHWEST CHAPEL 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio 43123. Family and friends are invited to gather together to share memories, stories, and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many. Please reach out to the family for the location and additional details.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mark’s memory by making a donation to your local veterans or warriors foundation, continuing his legacy of service by supporting those who have served our country.

After a lifetime of hard work, service to his country, and devotion to the people he loved, Mark has completed his final watch.

Fair winds and following seas, Petty Officer Tackett.