Mark Harris Burkley, 75, of Ammon, Idaho, passed away March 11, 2025, at Life Care Center of Idaho Falls.
Mark was born November 8, 1949, in Plainfield, New Jersey, to Frederick Harris Burkley and Lore Seewald Burkley. Mark was the oldest child, followed by his loving siblings, Jane, Daniel, and Karen. As the eldest, he was the “pioneer” with respect to growing up. His siblings learned a lot about what to do (and what not to do). Mark graduated from Watchung Hills Regional High School in the class of 1967. He graduated from the Citadel in 1971 and spent two years in the US Navy as a pilot. After his military service, he joined Motor Machine Company in Edison, New Jersey, as an engineer, foreman, and purchasing agent. He retired after 26 years and split his time between Ammon, Idaho and Goose Creek, South Carolina. He finally settled in Ammon, with his best friend, Ken Lembrich. For a number of years, he made an annual “pilgrimage” back east to visit fellow alumni, friends and relatives.
Mark enjoyed military art, board games, bridge, Hallmark movies, war-gaming, playing games like Talisman, M.U.L.E., Arkon and the first D&D themed computer games. In his retirement years, he enjoyed going for drives in his BMW, listening to music, and reading especially Tom Clancey and Louis L’Amour.
Mark accumulated a lot of wisdom that he freely shared with others. He had a kind heart and selflessly helped others in need. He enjoyed sitting in his chair and telling stories to all that would listen. Mark always had the best laugh that would fill a room and big hug to tell you how much he loved you. He left a lasting mark on the many people he touched and will be sorely missed and remembered fondly.
Mark is survived by his sisters, Jane (Ray) Claussen-Locke of Hollywood, SC, Karen Devine of Raleigh, NC; his brother, Daniel (Barbara) Burkley of Hillsborough, NJ; and his niece, Nicole Devine; nephews, Stephen Devine, Bob (Tina) Claussen; grandniece, Talia Claussen, and his Idaho Family, Ken, Mary, Susan, “Little” Mark, and Holly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lore Burkley and brother-in-law, Tom Devine.
A memorial service for Mark will be held on May 3, 2025, at Wilson Memorial Union Church, 7 Valley Road, Watchung, NJ, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, please email [email protected].
A private family service will be held in Ammon with the Bonneville County Memorial Team and Navy Honor Guard presenting military honors.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.