Mark Hawthorne Keep

Mark Hawthorne Keep, age 65, passed away on October 20, 2026, at his home in Phoenix, Arizona, where he lived and worked.

Mark was born on March 24, 1961, in Los Angeles, California, to Roger and Barbara Keep. The oldest of six children, Mark grew up in San Luis Obispo alongside his five younger siblings: Shaun Keep, Shannon Wixom (Keep), Dale Keep, Aaron Keep, and Leslee Ellsworth (Keep). He graduated from San Luis Obispo High School in 1979.

Mark pursued a lifelong passion for medicine, earning his bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and his medical degree from Albany Medical College in New York in 1988. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Utah and continued his specialized training in cardiology at the University of Arizona.

Mark spent much of his professional life as a well-respected cardiologist, dedicating his career to caring for others. His commitment to medicine reflected his desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark will be remembered most for his wonderful laugh, his genuine kindness, and his remarkably positive outlook on life. He had a natural ability to connect with people, and those who met him seemed to immediately like him and enjoy his company. Whether spending time with family, catching up with old friends, or meeting someone for the first time, Mark had a way of making others feel welcome and comfortable. His warm personality, easygoing nature, and contagious laughter left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

Mark was the proud father of four children: Jessica Sorensen (Jared), Bradley Keep, Mark Keep (Tressi), and his youngest daughter, Alissa Nicole Keep, who preceded him in death. He was also a grandfather to six wonderful grandchildren: Addilyn, Aidan, Mabel, Kollins, Desmond, and Arden.

Mark’s beloved daughter, Alissa Nicole Keep, passed away on July 6, 2008, at just seven years old. Although her passing brought tremendous sorrow, the family finds comfort in the belief that Mark and Alissa are now reunited in a loving embrace.

Mark will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, extended family, friends, former colleagues, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his years.

Funeral Services

Saturday, October 31, 2026

Larkin Mortuary and Chapel
1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092

10:00–10:30 a.m. – Family greetings and visitation
10:30 a.m. – Funeral service
11:30 a.m. – Graveside dedication

Family and friends are invited to gather to remember and celebrate Mark's life.