John "Mark" Harker

John “Mark” Harker, age 61, of Mentor, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital, surrounded by his family who loved him dearly. Born December 3, 1963, in Newport News, Virginia, Mark lived a life defined by love, generosity, and a passion for learning and sharing his gifts with others. Mark graduated as valedictorian for both Southern Local High School and University of Mount Union. He served as an Information Technology Manager, Support Services, at Avery Dennison, where he was not only respected for his expertise but admired for his heart. He was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for his outstanding mentorship and coaching with Mentor Schools and Lakeland Community College, where he inspired young minds to embrace science and technology. To know Mark was to know kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion. He was the most wonderful husband, a fantastic father, and the very best “Boppa.” His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters, who lit up his world. Mark’s brilliance was matched by his creativity and curiosity. He was a problem solver at heart and found joy in games having a treasured collection of more than 800 board games. Whether diving into strategy or science fiction, from Star Trek to Star Wars, Marvel to DC, Mark brought imagination and wonder to everything he loved. He felt music deeply, planned every detail with thoughtfulness, and gave gifts not just wrapped in paper but in meaning. Above all, Mark lived his life putting others first, always making time to lift up those around him with quiet strength, humor, and love. Mark is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Amy S. (Mobley) Harker; his loving daughters, Alyssa J. (Corey) Rodriguez and Emily C. (Alec) White; and his cherished granddaughters, Keira and McKenna. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly and who will carry his memory forward. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Linda Harker; his sister, Kim DeRuyter; and grandparents, Leet and Mae Raffle. Family and friends will be received from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. A memorial service to celebrate Mark’s life will follow at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 10501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44106. http://donate.cancer.org/ Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

John "Mark" Harker

December 3, 1963 - April 19, 2025