Mark Tendai, age 52, of Springfield passed away at his home December 30, 2017.  He is survived by his son Mark Tendai IV, daughter Audrey Tendai, mother, Janet Tendai, dear friend, Ramon Mendoza, sister, Dr. Jeanette Tendai, cousins Chris Tarnowiecky, Kathy Tarnowiecky, Ocktavian Tarnowiecky, Tanya Hayworth, Siegfried Tarnowieckyi, along with extended family members Arleth Fuentes, Karen Mendoza and Connie Otto.

Mark Tendai was a loving father, amazing brother, son and friend.  Family was the central focus of his life with his children being the light of his world.  He was an active participant in the Ozark Fighting Back organization and many Springfield Public School functions.  He never said no to a project or idea that he believed in.

Mark believed that all people are good, and he frequently extended opportunities to those in need or who desired a second chance.  He demonstrated eternal optimism and dedicated himself to creating a positive world and environment for his children and family to live in.  One of his many qualities people speak of often is his quick wit and engaging sense of humor.  He enjoyed playing pranks on people, creating cherished memories for all who were lucky enough to be in his company.

He was born in Columbia, Missouri to Dr. Mark and Janet Tendai on August 27, 1965.  He graduated from Glendale High School, attended college at University of Missouri, Columbia earning a degree in Business and Marketing.  Mark had an exceptional business mind and became a successful entrepreneur, founding and leading several businesses, including Pizza Pit, Metro Housing, Tendai Properties

He is preceded in death by his father Dr. Mark Tendai, grandparents Stanley and Opal Bryson, John and Anna Tynio, aunts and uncles:  Beverly Tarnowieckyi, Misha and Elenor Advision, Nicholas and Olga Tarnowieckyi and Elenor Blaser.

Visitation is scheduled for Friday January 5, 2018 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at King's Way United Methodist Church, 2401 S. Lone Pine.  Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 6, 2018 at King's Way United Methodist Church, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.  Burial will follow directly after at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens.

The family requests in lieu of sending flowers, donations be made to the Mark and Audrey Tendai Fund, c/o Central Bank of the Ozarks.