Mark Ambrose Homer, age 77, passed away on November 2, 2025.

Dr. Mark Ambrose Homer, 77, passed away on November 2, 2025, in Hollister, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 12, 1948, in Rhineland, Texas, to Kilian William “K.W.” Homer and Victoria Katherine Homer.

Mark was the first in his family to attend college - a remarkable achievement made even more meaningful by the loss of his father when he was just 15. With determination, intelligence, and grit, he built a future not only for himself but also helped pave the way for his younger brother’s success. He attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for pre-veterinary studies, where he met the love of his life, Carolyn Ryan, who became his devoted wife of 55 years. Recognizing his talent and potential, the University of California, Davis accepted him into their veterinary program early, and he earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from UC Davis.

Mark devoted his life to caring for animals, beginning his journey raising, showing, and even judging Quarter Horses. He went on to establish his own veterinary practice in Lodi, California, later expanding to a second location in Galt. Loved by clients and colleagues alike, he was known for his calm confidence, his dedication to the wellbeing of every animal he treated, and his subtle but sharp sense of humor, a gift he shared most readily with those closest to him.

In 1993, Mark and Carolyn moved to Alton, Missouri, where he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a cattle rancher. Though many might have called it “retirement,” ranching became the hardest and most rewarding work of his life. It brought him joy, purpose, and cherished friendships in their community - bonds he treasured deeply.

Above all else, Mark was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Ryan Homer, his children Jennifer Shoup (Mike), Janelle Hiles (Christian), and Jamie Vanderwoude (Blake); and his beloved grandchildren Tate, Talan, Tristen, Trey, and Tori - along with his adored “granddogs,” Bruce and Javier.

He is also survived by his siblings Gerard Homer (Cindy), Diana Essig (Dennis), and Donna Kimball (Art). He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Maurice “Joe” Homer, Patricia Hay (Ron), and Bill Homer (Joanne).
Mark will be remembered for his incredible work ethic, quiet generosity, unwavering strength, and the deep love he held for both his family and the land he worked. His legacy lives on through the countless lives, human and animal, that he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, in the name of Dr. Mark Homer, in honor of Mark’s courageous journey and supporting vital research and hope for a cure. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit http://www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.