Mark Shenefield, or ‘Tattoo Mark’, was a Dallas Cowboys superfan who died unexpectedly on Tuesday morning. Mark was known for his passion for the team and philanthropic work which he carried out through the Tattoo Mark Foundation.
Through his foundation, the late superfan tried to collect and distribute teddy bears for kids in hospitals, who faced difficult circumstances. It removes a large portion of the stomach and this reduction helps restrict calories and reduce hunger signals, Cleveland Clinic noted. Several people expressed tributes in the comments. “Awww Mark You are one of the most genuinely sincere and caring person I am blessed to know! Thank you for the blessing of your friendship Until we meet up again… RIP Mark,” one wrote. Another added “Always full of life! Kept me on my toes at the tailgates. RIP Amigo,” sharing a video. On X, Doug Dunbar of CBS News Texas shared “I’m at a loss for words. Our deepest condolences to Mark’s family, friends, and his deeply devoted fellow Cowboys fans. We are all stunned by the sudden passing of such a great human being.”
The news of Mark’s passing was reported by CBS News which noted he was a superfan of 24 years. Mark was around 63 or 64 at the time of passing. A 2022 report noted how Mark once ‘gave up on life’. In 2018, he ended up weighing around 450 pounds as per the report and the next year, Mark had a gastric sleeve surgery. Mark’s last post came less than 24 hours back.
“The Tattoo Mark Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds in order to provide support, activities, and toys for children receiving care in medical or mental facilities,” his page notes . “I started eating and drinking not exercising,” the CBS News report said . “YES WE DID IT,” he had written. Today brings the shock that Mark Shenefield, aka “Tattoo Mark” (3rd from right) died unexpectedly today.
Took this pic yesterday during a @dallascowboys promo shoot @CBSNewsTexas Nothing but fun and laughter.
Mark lost close members of his family to the disease, a 2023 CBS News report noted . Podcaster Paul Stewart wrote “Can’t believe am writing this, but just been informed that Cowboys Nation has lost one of this most dedicated super fans. An official cause of death for Shenefield was not provided. However, he’s battled congestive heart failure. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Mark multiple times over the years when ever I visit Texas. Rest Easy Mark, you will be absolutely missed.”
“Mark was a recognizable and enthusiastic member of the Dallas Cowboys community, but his greatest legacy will undoubtedly be the kindness he extended to others,” a House of Sterling PR told CBS News. Mark Shenefield also known to everyone as “Tattoo Mark”.
