Mark A. van Voorst

Mark A. van Voorst, 72, of Middle Grove, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with significant health challenges. Mark was born on September 9, 1953, in Holland, MI to Bruce and Marilyn (van Hekken) van Voorst. After spending much of his youth living overseas, Mark returned to the US and was a 1975 graduate of Hope College with a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and political science, and a 1978 graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity in pastoral counseling. Mark dedicated nearly 50 years to the intellectual and developmental disabilities field, beginning at the Jefferson County ARC in 1978. He moved on to the Lexington Center in 1987 where he began as Director of Rehabilitation and worked his way up to Associate Executive Director before leaving in 2001. His career path then took him to New York City, where he served as President and Chief Executive Officer at Lifespire, Inc. until 2017. After leaving his position at Lifespire, Mark returned to the ARC system as the Executive Director of The ARC New York, where he left a lasting impact through his dedication, leadership, and focus on the future. Throughout his career he remained committed to strengthening the care and outcomes for the community he served. While in college Mark was an avid soccer player and later enjoyed racquetball, target shooting, and was a prolific reader. Faith has been important to Mark, especially in recent years. A devout Christian, Mark was honored to be re-baptized with his daughter shortly before his passing, by Pastor William Pitcher. Mark also enjoyed his time at the group Mondays for Men at the First Baptist Church in Amsterdam, NY. In addition to his parents, Mark is also predeceased by his stepmother, Barbara van Voorst. Mark is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate of 30 years, Cindy (Perry) van Voorst, whom he shared some of his favorite memories. He is also survived by a daughter, Elizabeth (Matthew) Fiorillo; stepchildren, Michael (Heather) Hanson, Peter Buanno, and Jennifer (James) Keller; grandchildren, Emily and Sarah Fiorillo, Cole and Morgan Hanson, Ella, Lillian, and Maxton Buanno, and Juliette Keller; 3 sisters, Kathy (Hugh) Marchmon-Robinson, Susi (Michael) Prins, and Carol van Voorst (William Garland). He also leaves behind his canine companion, Slate, who was always by his side. Mark was a great man who will be remembered for his kindness, honesty, intelligence, humor, and love and devotion to his family, but above all he was humble. He was surprised by the impact he had on so many people both personally and professionally. Cremation took place at Park View Crematorium, Schenectady. At his request there will be no services. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, it was Mark’s request that donations be made to Tunnels To Towers Foundation or Wounded Warrior Project as he felt very indebted to the men and woman who gave so much so others could live. “Well done, good and faithful servant”. Arrangements are by Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc., Johnstown. To express online condolences, visit www.halgasfuneralhome.com.

Mark A. van Voorst

September 9, 1953 - May 21, 2026

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Mark A. van Voorst

September 9, 1953 - May 21, 2026

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

365 Days of Grief Support