close family by his side.
Mark was born on August 8th, 1961 to Charles Everett Orn and Cassie Loretta Below. He is proceeded in death by his foster parents Earl and Joanne Burgess, and his mentors Larry DeSmith and Stewart Wasson, all whom he missed greatly. He is survived by his three brothers: Charles, David and Robert, his sister Leslie, his “adopted” family; Nicholas and Kristina Shouse, Tommy and Jovan Thomason, David and Hattie Thomason, Alexander and Rebecca Wasson, Laura DeSmith; as well as many cousins, extended family and dear friends.
Upon his discharge from the Army, Mark traveled about the country, mostly by foot, gathering
many unbelievable stories along the way! Mark finally chose to lay his roots in Highland
Township, with those who would become his “adopted” family, with whom he would build his
forever home with. Mark never had children/grandchildren of his own; but he was deeply
adored by Chelsea, Nicolet, Hannah, Natalie, Tommy III, Aubrey, Ashton, Bradley, Aniah, Quinn,
Cloee, Cameron, Mason, Elizabeth, Emma and William, all as if they were always his, and he
was always theirs.
Mark prided himself on having visited every state in the country (with exception to Alaska and
Hawaii), his 12 year career at Exclusive Floor Covering, and his ability to fix almost anything!
Mark had a deep love and was a true seeker of God. He didn’t just believe in God and Jesus, he
knew Them.
Mark will be remembered by his generosity (even when he had little to give), his humility, his
willingness to always be helpful, his bright blue eyes, his SBC, his beautiful toothless smile, his
giggle, his crazy hair, his loyalty, and his love for family. Mark was gentle, he was kind, and he
could carry a genuine conversation with anyone.
As a simple man, in Mark’s own words, “ I want to be remembered as a good person”.
Funeral Services will be held at 3:00pm on Friday, October 8, 2021 at the Highland Chapel of the Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E. Highland Road. The family will receive friends on Friday from 11:00am until the time of the service at 3:00pm.
Contributions in Mark's memory may be made to the family.
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