Legacy

Mark E. Van Overloop of Park Ridge passed away on September 19th, 2023 at the age of 72, after enduring a brief illness. Mark was raised by his beloved parents (predeceased) Gloria and Ed. Mark grew up in Park Ridge, and graduated from PRHS in 1969 while attending and graduating from Fordham University in 1973. Mark owned and operated a health food store, Nature’s Market Place, with his mother, Gloria, first in Hawthorne, then in Ridgewood, NJ, in the 1970s-1980s.

Mark was an avid lover of the game of baseball. He was passionate about all aspects of the game, especially statistical analysis. Mark was a published writer in several accredited baseball journals, a member of the Society of Baseball Researchers (SABR), and the proud author of his published book – “Baseball’s Greatest Total Hitters.”

Mark demonstrated his love for the game by founding, managing, and playing in “A League Of Our Own” for 25 seasons in Northern NJ and his annual tournament in Cooperstown, NY, which is still active to date. Amongst his multitude of playing achievements, reaching the goal of 400 games won pitching, was his proudest.

Mark also cherished coaching and watching his children and grandchildren play ball. He is survived by his brother Chris, his sister Lori, his son Timothy, his daughter Amy, and three grandsons, Brooks, Henry, and John. Also so important is his great friend, Uncle Don.

Mark’s son, Tim Van Overloop, will carry on A League Of Our Own annual men’s over-40 baseball tournament in his father’s memory.