Officer Mark Smilek Died: A Tribute to a Fallen Hero Who Battled Leukemia
Officer Mark Smilek was a brave and dedicated police officer who served his community for over 25 years. He was also a survivor of the 9/11 attacks on the Pentagon, where he worked as a security officer before joining the Sewickley Borough Police Department in Pennsylvania. Sadly, he passed away on January 7, 2024, after a long and courageous fight with leukemia. He was 51 years old.
A Rare and Aggressive Cancer
Officer Mark Smilek was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukemia (ALL) in May of 2017, a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. According to the American Cancer Society, ALL is more common in children than in adults, and only about 6,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States.
Officer Smilek underwent several treatments to combat his disease, including radiation, spinal taps, bone marrow biopsies, and chemotherapy. He also received numerous blood transfusions and was in need of a bone marrow transplant. However, finding a suitable donor was challenging, as he had a rare blood type and a mixed ethnic background.
A Community’s Support
Despite his illness, Officer Smilek never gave up hope and continued to work as a police officer whenever he could. He also received tremendous support from his family, friends, colleagues, and community. His wife, Jennifer, whom he married in 2016, was his constant companion and caregiver. His fellow officers and the Sewickley Borough Police Department organized several fundraisers and events to help him with his medical expenses and to raise awareness about leukemia and the need for bone marrow donors. His story also touched the hearts of many people across the country, who sent him cards, letters, gifts, and prayers.
One of the most memorable moments of his journey was when he was honored as the grand marshal of the Sewickley Harvest Festival Parade in September of 2017, where he received a standing ovation from the crowd. He also got to meet his idol, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who gave him a signed jersey and a hug.
Mark Smilek’s Legacy of Courage and Service
Officer Smilek passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. His funeral was held on January 11, 2024, at the Sewickley United Methodist Church, where hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects and to celebrate his life. He was buried with full honors at the Sewickley Cemetery, where a 21-gun salute, a helicopter flyover, and a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace” were performed. Mark Smilek is survived by his wife, Jennifer, his parents, John and Mary, his brother, Michael, and his sister, Lisa.
Officer Smilek will be remembered as a hero, a warrior, and a friend, who inspired many people with his courage, determination, and kindness. He dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, even in the face of adversity. He was a true example of what it means to be a police officer and a human being.
Rest in peace, Officer Smilek. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. You will never be forgotten.
