Mark John Ziegler

Retired Master Sergeant Mark J. Ziegler died peacefully at his Cedartown home, Thursday, January 23, 2020 after a 7-month long battle against cancer. He is survived by his wife, Annette Ziegler; son, Jeffrey Ziegler and his wife Jennifer; son, Jon Ziegler and his wife Shari; mother, Shirley Pace Defoe; brother, Matt Ziegler; step-mother, Dorothy Ziegler; grandchildren: Anastasia, Mackenzie and Connor Ziegler.

Mark was born August 18, 1956 in Seaside, Oregon to John Robert F. Ziegler and Shirley Pace Defoe. He joined the United States Air Force in February 1977 and served 30 years, retiring in May 2008. In 1979, Mark married the love of his life, Annette. The pair had 2 sons, Jeffery and Jon, and lived around the country with the military, including Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, South Carolina, and Georgia. He was a member of the American Legion for 29 years.

Throughout his life, Mark fostered a love of old cars, collectibles, antiques, and the outdoors. While his children were young, Mark was a scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts for 10 years. You could always find him hunting, fishing, or boating. He loved DIY projects and weekend car shows or swap meets. Mark was funny, har-working, and determined in all his endeavors. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed him. He loved his family and friends with his whole heart.

Mark John Ziegler, loving husband, father, and papa, he will be missed.

In honor of his service to our country and his life well lived, services will be held later at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia.

The Smith & Miller Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Mark J. Ziegler.