Mark Alan Hurst

The youngest child of the late Frederick and Dorothy (Waters) Hurst, he was born and grew up in Niagara Falls, NY. Just out of high school, Mark married the love of his life, Joyce Black, in 1964 and moved to Lockport, NY. Mark started his career with American Airlines in 1966 and worked at the Buffalo, NY airport. In 1980, he transferred to Houston, TX and retired in 2004 with 38 years of service. Together, Mark and Joyce built a full life for themselves and their two children. They stayed devoted to each other and the family they built throughout the 61 years of their marriage.

The saying ‘never met a stranger’ definitely applied to Mark. He had an ability to connect with everyone he met and could make them feel instantly at ease with him. He genuinely cared about others and how they were doing. He loved hosting his afternoon garage get togethers where there was no shortage of airplane talk or solving the problems of the world. If the garage door was open, anyone was welcome to join. If he wasn’t in the garage, you could find him with his buddies on the golf course. He had many friends and neighbors that loved him dearly and will truly miss him. He was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone.

Even in retirement, Mark never tired of airplanes. If he heard an airplane flying over, he could look up and tell you the type of aircraft. He loved watching YouTube videos of different planes taking off and landing. He loved following his son as he flew around the world as a pilot.

He had a special place in his heart for animals of all kinds and was known for carrying a bag of dog treats in his truck. Every dog he knew recognized the sound of his truck and knew they were going to get some treats and scratches.

Mark worked hard throughout his life to provide for and support his family. He was a loving father and grandfather that would take on the world on behalf of any one of them right up until the end. He was at every function or activity to give guidance, a pat on the back, a word of encouragement or to just be proud of their accomplishments.

He was truly a gentle soul. His family has lost their rock, but Heaven has gained a shining star. He leaves behind a strong legacy that will live on for years to come in the lessons he taught us and the love that we all carry for him in our hearts.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick C. Hurst and Dorothy A. Hurst and siblings, Frederick Hurst, Sandra Smyth and Sara Dash. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Hurst, his son, Mark (Sally) Hurst, his daughter, Melonee Patrick. Grandchildren – Dylan Patrick, Kyle Hurst, Elizabeth Patrick and Cameron Hurst. Sister-in-law, JoAnn Parnella, Brother-in-law, Jim Parnella and Brother-in-law Jim Smyth and many nieces and nephews.