Associate professor of the Department of Finance Mark James Bertus, 38, passed away after fighting a three-year battle with colon cancer Jan. 26.
Bertus was diagnosed with colon cancer Oct. 16, 2007.
John Jahera, head of the Department of Finance, said Bertus struggled through this past summer juggling treatment and teaching his classes.
Jahera described him as a popular teacher with his students and effective in the classroom.
"Just a great guy," Jahera said. "He had done exceeding well in a short time here."
Bertus came to Auburn University in 2002. In his eight years as a professor he won various teaching awards, including the Department of Finance Teacher of the Year in 2007, 2008 and 2009. He also received the Outstanding MBA Teacher of the Year award in 2005 and 2006.
Visitation is tonight from 6-8 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika.
Funeral service will be held at St. Michael's Catholic Church Friday at 10 a.m
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The Plainsman will have a feature on Mark Bertus in the Feb. 4 print edition.
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