Mark Emil Kooyman

Mark Kooyman, an Athens Georgia business owner, and vibrant community leader passed away on September 4, 2024. He was 65 years old.

Mark was born in Cleveland Ohio but his family relocated to Athens in 1974 at which time he became a freshman at Cedar Shoals High School, where he graduated in 1979. Mark attended the University of Georgia earning his Bachelors Degree in Advertising and Journalism and Masters Degrees in Communications and Business.

Mark worked within the Advertising, Marketing and Branding field for over 35 years and most recently was the CEO and Discovery Chief of Experience, a branding firm which focuses on Health, Retail, Tourism, Non-Profits, and Politics. Over his career, Mark worked with brands such as American Express, Cartoon Network, Discovery Networks, BMW, Emory Healthcare, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Iams Pet Food and HGTV. In his early twenties, Mark worked with Dave Thomas and Wendys to launch the “Where’s the Beef” advertising campaign, Mark’s own innovation and idea which spurred a nationwide advertising campaign still memorable today.

Mark was a dedicated uncle who could be found at soccer games, trapeze recitals, concerts, and honor-student events. In his spare time, Mark was an artist and enjoyed spending time with his dog Beau.

Mark is survived by his sister Erev Richards King (Kooyman), niece Alethea Marie Richards, nephew Zevid Marcus Yale Richards, niece Lyris Ruth Richards and sister-in-law Lisa Rene King. Parents, Mike (H.W.) Kooyman and Ruth Marie Kooyman both passed in 2019.

A memorial service and life celebration will be held at the Unitarian Fellowship on Timothy Road Sunday, September 15th, 2024 from 4-5pm with a reception following the service.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, East, Athens is entrusted with arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.