Mark D. Nixon
Mark D. Nixon, 76, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Aug. 14, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Owosso, Michigan, Mark spent his childhood in the close-knit towns of Bannister and Harrison. He went on to graduate from Michigan State University, carrying a lifelong pride in his Spartan roots.
For more than 30 years, Mark was a respected voice in the Greater Lansing community through his work at the Lansing State Journal, where he served as a reporter, columnist, features editor and ultimately editorial page editor. His writing combined insight, wit and compassion, and he used his platform to highlight stories that mattered — both big and small — to the people of mid-Michigan. Mark
closed his career with six years as communications director for the Lansing Board of Water and Light. His time there not only gave him meaningful work but lasting friendships that endured.
Mark’s journalism extended well beyond the printed page, a result of his deep and abiding desire to make his community a better place for all. He championed local causes such as the Adopt a River program and the Lansing BWL Chili Cookoff, ideas that were born from his passion and vision. He lent his support to the Greater Lansing Food Bank, and was an avid participant in the Old Newsboys charity, which raises funds for children in need. His efforts reflected his belief that even small acts of service could ripple outward to make a lasting difference. A curious and adventurous spirit, Mark also loved to roam the planet with his cherished wife, Judith, visiting 25 countries and enjoying constant adventures across the United States. He approached each journey with wonder, humor and a reporter’s eye for detail.
Mark was a devoted husband to Judith Odette Nixon, and a loving father to Ryanne Nixon (Delmar Twistol) of Holland, Massachusetts, and Andrew Nixon of Ann Arbor, Michigan. He also cherished his role as a supportive stepfather to Lisa Collins and Sara Collins (David Faiver), both of Lansing, Michigan.
Family meant everything to Mark. He is survived by his brother, Leslie Nixon (Michele Nixon) of Onaway, Michigan; and sisters Kristin Nixon-Milner of Holt, Michigan, and Cheryl Nixon of Yakima, Washington. He was a proud grandfather to Abigail Oppedisano, Keelan Herrera, Reagan Kennell (Andrew Spittler), Kaitlyn Bower (Colin Bower), Phelan Velez, Grant Kennell (Ann-Marie Lorencen), Clarisse Faiver, Thorin Faiver and Forrest Faiver and a delighted great-grandfather to Macrina, Mardarije and Kassiani Bower.
Mark was preceded in death by his loving parents, Keelan and Margaret Nixon, and a sister, Patricia Herzog.
Those who knew Mark will remember him for his unstinting kindness, quick wit, gift for storytelling and generosity of spirit. His legacy will live on in the causes he championed, the words he wrote and the family and friends whose lives he touched.
Visitation hours will be held Friday, Aug. 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 23 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Estes-Leadley Funeral Home (325 W. Washtenaw St., Lansing). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembering Mark via support for the Greater Lansing Food Bank or the Old Newsboys Association, or volunteering for the Adopt a River program’s next clean-up event.
26 Messages to “Mark D. Nixon”
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Bruce & Jan Cornelius
August 15, 2025 at 6:06 pmOne of the dearest people we have had the pleasure of knowing.
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 2:47 pmWhat sweet words, thank you for being a good friend. Kristin (sister)
Lynn Henning
August 16, 2025 at 10:38 amHad the pleasure of nearly a 50-year friendship with Mark, and the equally great privilege of sitting a few feet from him in the late ’70s in that glorious Lansing State Journal newsroom. Apart from his lifelong goodness, it’s necessary to consider as one entity his humanity as well as his professionalism and distinct journalistic craft: He was an excellent police reporter, gaining trust from law-enforcement people galore, putting together sensitive backgrounders when police couldn’t talk about suspects or cases, but who knew they could trust Mark to write exactly what could, and by all accounts, probably should be made known to a concerned public. Then, of course, there was the majesty of his Off The Road masterpieces, telling mid-Michigan’s story, one fascinating person or event at a time. As we got together for lunch these latter years, he, Bruce Cornelius, Hugh Leach, Pat Murphy, Norm Sinclair, myself, and before they passed on, the immortal Jim Hough and Curt Hanes (Jim Bleicher, Lance Lynch and others who didn’t work at the Journal but who were part of these alumni pilgrimages also would testify), it would be Mark who would slip over to the waitress and say: “Put the drinks on my tab.” He quarterbacked the Old Newsboys charity drives, and did so much, for so many, including for this guy who was blessed to know him as a shining colleague, and as an eternal friend. Lynn Henning
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 2:51 pmLynn, Thank You for such a sweet memory and for being a trusted colleague. Yes, Mark learned that being a good host comes from our mother. “May not have much, but what I can do is yours!”
Regards,
Kristin (sister)
Beverly and Barry Bishop
August 16, 2025 at 12:40 pmMark was a dear friend of mine and my husband. Mark and I worked together at BWL for many years, and he had each other’s backs. We always looked forward to having dinner with Mark and Judy every summer when we traveled back to Michigan. We loved talking about our travels, family, and catching up on so many other topics. Mark, we will miss you so much. You left us too soon. We extend our sympathy to Judy and all of your family. May you rest in peace our dear and special friend.
Beverly and Barry Bishop
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 2:53 pmBeverly and Barry~~ Thank you for sharing your memories and as you know, TRAVEL was in their blood. I can only imagine where Mark will visit and probably cause an incident or two. (typical).
Regards,
Kristin (sister)
John Strickler
August 16, 2025 at 11:46 pmIt was with great pleasure that I knew and admired Mark Nixon. I preceded Mark as the Communications Director at the Board of Water and Light and admired him as a journalist and as a person with a deep commitment to his community. Mark was instrumental in championing the concept of Adopt A River, an annual river cleanup that The BWL was proud to organize and sponsor. He will be greatly missed.
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 2:55 pmJohn, Admiration is something Mark would “ahh schucks about.” Thank You! He loved his community and the people who served it well.
Regards,
Kristin (sister)
Michael and Denise Denovich
August 17, 2025 at 8:32 ameveryone who knew Mark realized how gracious and kind he was to everyone no matter where you came from. I will never forget the article he wrote for LSJ about the Bannister weddings and how the whole area was usually invited. They were held at the Bannister Slovak Hall which is part of our heritage. He was family oriented and always had a kind word to say. Goodbye for now cousin Mark.
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 2:59 pmDenise and Michael, as you know, Mark would not want anyone to make a fuss, but this is one time…… ha! Cousins meant a lot to Mark; he could always count on some mischief to get into with them all. We would talk of memories of the Slovak Hall, dancing, great food, and the people, always the people!! Those childhood experiences help make the man we love today!! Cousin, you are in our hearts!!
Love Kristin (sister)
George Economy
August 17, 2025 at 11:24 amI have lost one of the kindest friends a person could ever have in a lifetime. Mark was a joy to be with. Witty, comical, thoughtful. You couldn’t ask for more in a friend. Rest in peace my friend.
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 3:01 pmGeorge, thank you so much for those words, we hold them dear.
Regards,
Kristin (sister)
Karen Potter
August 17, 2025 at 11:36 amMark moved into our farming neighborhood into the old Thornburg farm when I was a kid. He and Barb become fast friends with my grandparents and parents, and we all enjoyed many conversations with Mark. His friendship and those memories have been cherished over the years. I know he will be missed by his wife, Ryanne, and Andy, and their families. My deepest condolences to you all. I’m sorry I haven’t seen him in such a long time.
Karen and Robert L Wooley
August 17, 2025 at 2:00 pmDearest Mark and family , We always had such good times when we got together , talk and laugh about such crazy things !! Always treasure the times we helped Grandma K wipe dishes and we usually got candy after we were done !! Read your column and always enjoyed the different subjects you touched on but loved your articles about Bannister and the weddings when everyone was invited. Our condolences to Judy and all the family , we will all be together someday, God Bless . Cousin Karen and Robin
Kristin A Milner
August 18, 2025 at 3:05 pmKaren and Rob~ Please know that the picture of you and Mark doing dishes “proudly” is displayed on the board and in Mark’s realm of important memories. Cousins are the best, they remember when you cannot, bring them up for show and tell, and it’s like yesterday when they happened. In our hearts always. Karen -Partner in Mischief
Love
Kristin (sister)
Dennis Pace
August 17, 2025 at 6:51 pmMark was a hard working, principled and forward-looking journalist. As editorial editor of the LSJ, he not only spoke truth to power, but often set out a vision for what Greater Lansing could become. There is no better example than his work surrounding his Grand Vision, which he set forth in a series of editorials beginning in 1993. Mark rightfully took the city to task for “turning its back” on the river that ran through it. He laid out a plan and chaired a work group that led to Adopt a River and the creation of the Lansing River Trail. Thirty years later, innumerable riverfront buildings, businesses, festivals, initiatives and events stand as testaments to his leadership.
Mark was also quite the foodie, as evidenced by his years as half of the regular “He Ate, She Ate” column in the City Pulse, in which he chronicled his (and Judy’s) gastronomic adventures across the fine dining and low dives of the Lansing restaurant scene. Decades earlier, he had written a column in the LSJ (perhaps a bit tongue in cheek) bemoaning that could not get a decent meal in this town. The letters poured into the paper, taking issue with his assessment and offering up this or that restaurant as worthy of Mark’s approval. Mark did not back down but certainly started a community conversation about dining and the role it plays in a vibrant community.
Many will miss Mark’s friendship, his wisdom and his impish sense of humor. But we can take heart in the knowledge that he succeeded in making this community a richer, stronger and more exciting place to be.
Kristin A Milner
August 19, 2025 at 3:16 pmOh Dennis, how true your words are. He never thought of himself as a foodie, but once in a remote restaurant up north, he requested a piece of pie with some “decent cheese.” His impish character realized too late that he may have insulted the server, so he overcompensated with niceness. Dig yourself out of that one Mark!
Flawed, yes, but never lacked in trying to witness the best in people.
Regards,
Kristin (Sister)
Janet MacFarlane
August 17, 2025 at 9:09 pmI met Mark when I moved to Michigan back in the early 2000’s when I became a member of the Lansing State Journal’s Community Advisory Board. I barely knew anyone in Michigan and as a mom of two young children, the advisory board was a great outlet for me. Mark was so friendly and nice and provided a great forum for our group of community members. All of my condolences to his family and friends.
Vicky Lorencen
August 18, 2025 at 2:23 pmI regret I only had a single opportunity to meet and talk with Mark, but even that brief conversation will long remain in my memory. Mark’s humor, intelligence, curiosity and generosity came shining through. It’s no wonder his passing will be mourned by many. I suspect Mark would like knowing even now, in such a time of sadness, shared stories about him will bring smiles and laughter.
My heart goes out to Judy and the entire family. I know you’ll cherish your memories of Mark just as you’ll continue to hold each other close.
Kristin A Milner
August 19, 2025 at 3:18 pmVicky,
It only takes one time to engage with another to see a person’s true character. Lucky you!
Regards,
Kristin (sister)
Ann-Marie Lorencen
August 18, 2025 at 2:26 pmMark was the absolute best bonus grandpa I could ever ask for. He had a remarkable way of making others—myself included—feel truly seen and understood. His passion and zest for life were nothing short of astonishing. I’ve never met anyone else with such a brilliant sense of humor, a tender heart, strong morals, and insane euchre skills!
I remember the first time I met Mark and Judy, and from that day on, they both made me feel like family. Mark was always the first to offer congratulations on any accomplishment, no matter how big or small. His authenticity and genuine spirit are rare traits—ones you simply don’t come across often.
Over the past week, one of the most repeated phrases I’ve heard is, “They just don’t make ’em like him anymore.” And it’s true. He really was a rare breed.
My boyfriend, Grant (Mark’s grandson), and I have spent a lot of time reminiscing about the many joyful memories we’ve shared with Mark and Judy over the years. And honestly, I can’t think of a single bad one. He was just that kind of person—kind, warm, and unforgettable. I will miss him terribly.
Before Mark passed, I was blessed to receive a few cherished family recipes. I plan to carry on the tradition of making and sharing those dishes—especially the famous cheese ball. It’s just one of the many ways I hope to honor his memory and keep a piece of him with us always.
Tony Cignoli
August 21, 2025 at 11:45 amMark is one of the most memorable people, one of the most impactful life forces, I’ve ever met. He exuded such love for people, so much compassion and kindness for his fellow travelers in this life. His gift of the written word, his magic of capturing the essence and efforts of people is a body of work that is a testament to him. He had “reporter’s ink in his veins” It mixed well with the milk of human kindness that flowed through him too. He could be the strong and courageous editor and leader who could seek truth and uphold the public’s right to know the facts, and still earn titles like “funny grandpa”. He was Michigan’s Mark Twain. His example is a beacon for journalists still. May the power of his love be with his family always.
Jennifer Harsha Carroll
August 21, 2025 at 3:24 pmMark was a gifted writer and kind mentor when I joined the Lansing State Journal in 1984 as a rookie reporter. We became friends over the 15 years we worked together at the LSJ, including a shared love of the area, our families, MSU, beyond.
Mark’s way with words was magical, his heart and generosity was golden, his spirit so full of joy. I am honored and grateful to have known him. Hugs to Judy and his wonderful family.
Deb Herzog
August 22, 2025 at 11:33 amMy heart is with you at this time. Uncle Mark was fun to be around telling stories, and that chuckle! He is with great company watching us from above! Love to you all!
Thomas Spero
August 23, 2025 at 5:30 pmMark, thank you for being such a good friend to my brother through your years at MSU and beyond. You were always kind and interested in all of us. The world will be less without you.
John Simon
September 7, 2025 at 9:56 pmMark was always the good guy. We first met as altar boys at St Athanasius church, pastor Father Sruba.. We went through high school together (Mark being the class Valedictorian).
After graduation I did not see Mark again for 50 years. He was the same person I knew in high school, kind and generous, reflecting about the old days. The world needed more people like Mark.