Obituary of Mark Walter Koep

Mark Walter Koep, 62, of North Brunswick, NJ passed away in the hospital on December 24, 2020.  Mark was born in Plainfield, NJ and lived in South Plainfield while he attended Sacred Heart School and South Plainfield High School.  He held an Electronics Technology Degree from Devry University, and worked as an Engineering Technician for Koep Precision Standards in Metuchen, NJ and later as Lead Quality Control Inspector for Blonder Tongue in Old Bridge, NJ.  Mark found math and statistics to be interesting and enjoyable, and was especially keen on advanced baseball statistics at a time when the topic was just emerging in the professional ranks.  In 1969, at age eleven, along with many members of his family, he began a lifelong passion as a New York Mets baseball fan, which culminated in a World Series win that year.  As an adult, he attended many Mets games, as well as minor league games in the New Jersey area.  While attending Mets games, Mark wore his radio watch, which enabled him to hear the broadcast, and was always willing to share one earpiece with any of us with him.    

Mark had diverse interests, including science fiction, politics, music, animal welfare, sports and current events.  At family gatherings, he proved to be an informed source in many topics, and especially loved to discuss the status of the New York Mets.  He was a long time contributor to the National Humane Education Society, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, Covenant House, St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, the Smile Train, and others.  

Mark was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Alice Koepand his step-mother Dorothy Lebreton. He is survived by his five sisters: Kathleen Lutter of Lawrence Township NJ, Karen Miller of Greenbrook NJ, Caroline Koep of Palerton PA, Cheryl Monticchio of Forked River NJ, Cynthia Frederick of Lake Ariel PA, and two brothers , Paul Koep of Madison NJ and Matthew Koep of Flemington NJ.  

And is also survived by seven nieces, five nephews, and one great nephew, all of whom he cherished.  He always sent birthday cards with scratch off lottery tickets to them in the mail.  He also dressed up as Santa for many family Christmas celebrations to the delight of all.  

Mark is best remembered for his loving and gentle heart, quick wit, passion for his beloved Mets, strong commitment to the causes he held dear, and his independent spirit.  

Burial at Holy Redeemer Cemetery in South Plainfield, NJ will be private.