Vancel E. “Paka” Marks, 45, of Decatur passed away Saturday, September 5, 2015, at his residence. Paka was born May 29, 1970, in Decatur to James Edward and Velma Marks. He graduated Decatur High School in 1988. He attended the University of South Alabama and was a graduate of Athens State University after which he pursued a career in Industrial Sales. Paka will forever be remembered for his kind heart and free spirit. He was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Marks and a brother, Rickey Edward Marks.
He is survived by his mother, Velma Marks; sons, Alec Marks and Harrison Marks; brothers, Don Hodges (Lynn), Dreanion Marks (Sandra), and Bunyan Marks (Alison); sister-in-law, Lori Marks; also several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Tuesday, September 8, 2015, from noon until 2 p.m. at Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Reverend Evan D. Garner of St. John’s Episcopal Church officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Roselawn Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Taylor Marks, Jack Marks, Sam Marks, Jamie Marks, Philip Etienne and Carlton McMasters. Honorary pallbearers will be Brent Craft, Paul Coffman and Kinnley Coffman.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations to Hospice of the Valley or to a trust set up at Regions Bank in the name of Alec and Harrison Marks. Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family.
