Mark McLain lost his battle to kidney cancer on October 31, 2024 in the arms of his loving wife Diane.

His daughters Elysha and Lynsey dedicated themselves to taking care of their dad for his last 16 days of life.  Mark left this earth knowing he was admired, respected and loved.

The first thing people would say to describe Mark would be that he loved to fish. He did.    Yet that was a hobby, not the man he was.

Mark's greatest quality was he knew how to love wholeheartedly. Mark loved every minute of his nearly 20 years with Diane. He was proud to tell anyone who would listen how happy and in love they were.

Mark was never an in law; he was a deeply loved family member, he blended in as every Renner's favorite person. Diane's family said "you really chose well for us". Everyone loving Mark was the bonus.  Mark and Diane were neighbors in elementary school at VAFB. Their friendship didn't start then though. At 6 years old, protecting his fort, Mark threw dirt clods at Diane. At 15, they became best friends and 'if' they are able to meet again in the next life, Diane pleaded with Mark to 'bust a move' long before they are 47 years old.

His daughters Elysha (Marc) Perry and Lynsey say they were never allowed to be bored growing up with their dad. He did everything with them from softball, motorcycle riding, tennis, golf, camping and of course fishing. NOT horses (no steering wheel or brakes), yet he carted the girls to ride and feed their animals.

Both of his daughters knew what a father's love was supposed to be. When his first   granddaughter Emalee arrived, Mark's heart grew a few sizes bigger that day. As Lynsey's family grew, adding Alayna and Anthonny, Mark's love grew the second he held his grandkids in his arms. He loved being Elsa Grandpa to Elysha's daughter Sydney. She brought him such joy when she performed and danced with the Elsa dolls he gifted her.

But the first love of Mark's life was his mom Lucille and his grandma Eleanor.

There are countless children and friends that will play Simon Say's, Wii, Farkle, Uno, 31 and more and it is hoped they will be able to hold Mark in their hearts with each game played.

Mark loved to teach kids (and adults) tasks necessary in life and things that were silly and fun.

Mark went to work happily and proud everyday for 34 years as a missile technician, starting at Martin Marietta that eventually changed to United Launch Alliance.

Who was Mark McLain? He was kind, honest, hardworking and so loyal. He would help anyone. We made best friends with strangers because Mark offered to help. He stopped to change tires for strangers, jump batteries. He also taught friends how to fix things in order to save money. He was never selfish with his knowledge, time or actions. Mark truly was kind to all.

His love for his friends… So many of you he called 'Brother'. You are his family and he truly cherished his relationship with you. There is also a long list of ladies on his friend list, "Diane, you are going to love her." He was always right.

Mark started each day with a smile. In the 20 years with Diane, he never once failed to kiss her good morning. His life wasn't always easy, but he was always positive about today and tomorrow.

With the ugly cancer; he chose a path that seemed naive. It was Mark fighting to not allow the cancer to stop him from living, before it actually took his life. He amazed us all with his positivity and perseverance. Mark was a Warrior.

Mark was not gifted with peace in his last days. Thank you Elysha and Lynsey for helping me take care of your dad. It was not easy, yet Mark never knew the struggles and heartache we endured.

Thank you to both the girl's friends and family and to my beautiful family and amazing friends who supported us and held our hands through this sad journey.

Dr Newman, you are Mark's hero and mine for helping him stay by my side for 1,513 days, when it didn't always seem possible.

Dr. Suh and Dr. Ashlock, thank you for being an integral part of Mark's team.

The only thing Mark did wrong in life, besides not patenting some of his inventions was… he didn't write down his 1000s of jokes! It would have been a best seller.

In Mark's honor, please tell a joke and tell your person(s) what they mean to you and how much you love them.

RIP my beautiful hearted husband.