Mark Joseph Baldeck, M.D., D.D.S., age 61, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, in Oklahoma, due to complications from a sudden sepsis infection. He peacefully returned to our Lord surrounded by his wife, Lisa, and his daughters, Katherine and Claire.
Mark was born on Feb. 12, 1963, to Eugene M Baldeck, M.D., and Carol Ann Burns Baldeck in San Francisco. He grew up in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley, where he attended Lewiston High School and lettered in golf.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Creighton University in 1985, where he played collegiate golf. It was during his return to Lewiston, that he met his wife of 37 years, Lisa Gehring, who later gifted him with his two beautiful daughters Katherine (29) and Claire (22). Lisa remained by his side until the end of his journey.
Following his graduation from Creighton, Mark attended the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, where he graduated Cum Laude in 1990. He then returned to Omaha, Neb., graduating from Creighton University School of Medicine in 1994. He was nominated for AOA, an award recognizing top medical students, and served as vice president of his class. Subsequently, Mark completed his residency in radiology in Albuquerque, N.M., in 1998, and his fellowship in interventional radiology at the University of Mississippi in 1999. He commenced his career as an Interventional Radiologist, practicing in Tennessee, Idaho and ultimately Tulsa, Okla., where he served for 13 years as the director of Interventional Radiology at St. John’s Hospital.
Mark, just as his father and grandfather before him, possessed a passion for practicing medicine. He took pride in building relationships with his colleagues and patients and was known for artfully providing reassurance when it was needed most. Mark was a mentor to many who were pursuing a career in medicine, and he prided himself on accurately helping others in all regards. Actively involved in the Oklahoma State Radiology Society, he held various roles including vice president, president, and treasurer during his tenure in Tulsa. He also contributed to the American College of Radiology, particularly advocating for advanced stroke screenings. In 2017, he attained Fellowship status with the American Board of Radiology, and he cherished the opportunities to connect with fellow radiologists at medical meetings. He was also president of the Mid America Interventional Radiology Society in 2016.
Outside of work, Mark was a devoted father, enthusiastically supporting his daughters, Katherine and Claire, in all their endeavors. With his wife Lisa, he enjoyed traveling, exploring new restaurants and recipes, and reminiscing on the beautiful life they built together. An avid golfer, he shared his talents and passion with family and friends, often gifting old sets of clubs to newcomers to the sport. Mark held his family in high regard, caring deeply for his brothers, Mike, John, and Gene, and his sister, Linda. Regardless of his location, he made it a priority to regularly visit his siblings and loving parents, Eugene and Carri.
Mark possessed a remarkable ability to forge friendships wherever he went. Remembering names and details, he cultivated many meaningful connections throughout his life. He made a point to regularly check in on friends, offering a wink of encouragement and support when needed.
Mark is survived by his wife Lisa of 37 years, his daughters Katherine and husband Alex Drake, who reside in Boston, Mass., and Claire, who is attending Oklahoma State University. He is also survived by his mother Carri Baldeck, brothers Dr. Mike Baldeck and wife Karen, John Baldeck, Eugene Baldeck, and sister Linda Baldeck and husband Jack Fuller. Mark also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Dr. Eugene Meehan Baldeck.
A funeral celebrating his life was held on Friday, May 17, at the Church of Saint Mary’s in Tulsa. The family is planning a celebration of life in Lewiston with a date to be announced.
