Mark was born in Visalia, CA and spent his early years in Newman. Born to Bob and Betty Burden, Mark was the youngest of his siblings – Judy, Jim, and Mike. Bob and Betty raised their children to be warm, loving people and instilled a strong work ethic. Mark attended Wilson Elementary and graduated from Downey High School, MJC, and San Jose State University earning a degree in Aeronautical Operations / Business.
He became a private pilot at 18 and worked for Cessna Finance Corporation financing and repossessing private planes after college.
Mark and his brother, Jim, along with other family members established Rim Hospitality evolving from a small motel firm to a successful hotel management company. Prior to retirement as President/CEO and the disposition of Rim, the company’s portfolio included 95 hotels within the US and Canada.
He was a well-respected businessman and leader. Throughout his life he served on many Boards and Organizations. A few to note were Big Brothers Big Sisters, Modesto Symphony, Del Rio Country Club, Prime Shine, and Cal Poly Pomona Collins College of Hospitality Management.
Travel was a great passion. Mark was particularly interested in traveling to developing countries and experiencing the people, food, and cultures. In 1980 he traveled around the world by himself, and his love of travel continued throughout his life.
Mark filled many journals and expressed that one his greatest ambitions was to live a life true to himself. In one entry he wrote: “I am going to live my life exactly as I desire. I am going to make this world a better place. I may only touch a small community or only a handful of people, but I will make this community and group of people happier and more content.” In his retirement, Mark joined Hope Haven West to assemble and fit children in need with wheelchairs. He took great pride in the impact that he was able to make and his last trip with Hope Haven West was to Mongolia in August 2023.
Mark’s family who affectionately called him “Big Mark” will always remember him for his sense of humor and the nicknames he gave to many people close to him. He was a loving, thoughtful man and frequently expressed the love and pride he felt for his wife and daughters. He enjoyed playing golf and was a member at Del Rio Country Club in Modesto and Quail Lodge in Carmel. Mark had many interests and hobbies. He was an avid reader, enthusiastic bocce player, loved remodeling homes, and always had to have a project.
One of Mark’s final journal entries read: “I have had a great life. Never any great tragedy. Things seem to happen to me the way I dream about them. It’s almost as though I can wish them to happen.” While we would never wish to lose him so soon, Mark unquestionably left the world a better place.
He was proud of the life and love he shared with his wife and children. Mark leaves behind his loving wife, Joy of 36 years; his daughters Alexandria Burden and Hillary (Brett) Hamara; grandchildren, Grayson and Parker Hamara; his two beloved fur-dogs, Charles Henry and Cooper James; and many other relatives and friends that loved him and will miss him deeply.
A private service was held by family and a Celebration of Life will be held in Spring of 2024.
Memorial contributions can be made to Hope Haven West.
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