Mark Russell McCorkle

Mark Russell McCorkle, age 61, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 17, 2023. He was a beloved husband, dad, grandpa, son, brother, and friend. Anyone who knew him will remember his kind, genuine, fun, sweet soul forever. Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Edna McCorkle. He is survived by his wife, Karen, son Clint (Stacy) McCorkle, daughter Kelsey (Darrin) Wilbert, grandchildren, Winnie, Felix, and Otis McCorkle, Maren and Annie Wilbert, father, Robert McCorkle, brothers, Mike McCorkle and Don (Michelle) McCorkle, and numerous nieces, nephews and family. Mark was blessed with a wonderful childhood full of many adventures with his two brothers. The McCorkle brothers were close in age and grew up valuing each other not only as brothers but as friends. His younger memories would include a love of motor cross and endless hours of playing basketball. The last several years the original McCorkle family has enjoyed twice weekly card games to share laughs, quality time and friendly competition. Although the dynamic changed in September when his mom passed away, the McCorkle men continued the tradition. Mark and Karen met in high school and dated for 3 years before marrying in 1983. Although they had 40 wonderful years together, it was not nearly enough. So many sweet memories of an incredible life together. Mark’s career took him on a variety of paths starting as a machinist with his dad and brothers, working as a draftsman, working in the plastics industry, owning his own business, working in the ethanol industry for ICM, Inc., and most recently, in a sales role that he loved with Flottweg Separation Technology. Throughout his career, many roles involved travel that took him all over the world. He made the most of every trip and came home with an undeniable excitement to share pictures, memories, and plans to return overseas. Mark was a born leader coaching some of the kids sports teams, being a Scout Master for Clint’s Boy Scout Troop, leading West High School reunion committees, leading bible studies, being a Church Elder, a Sunday School teacher ,youth group leader and just being that “take charge” kind of guy. Mark was an incredible dad, involved in everything and when not helping out, he was in the stands cheering on the football player, cheerleader, baseball player, dancer, for any and every ball game, dance recital, band concert, and scout event, etc. Big or small - he was there. He shared a unique bond with each of his children, and would move heaven and earth to help them. Mark loved Shocker Basketball, and he loved having Shocker basketball season tickets. But some of the best memories were the annual trips to St. Louis for the MVC Basketball Tournament. Those weekends with family were a special time filled with lots of basketball, lots of Italian food, LOTS of Ted Drews frozen custard, and endless fun spending time together. Shocker basketball season was the best time of year, regardless of the team or outcome of the game, they always looked forward to gameday to enjoy each other’s company and bond over the love of the game. The role that gave Mark the most joy and filled his heart, was that of Grandpa, also known as Papa and Poppy. His five grandkids were the newest loves of his life, and if you knew him at all, you also heard about his grandkids. He also loved his role as “Papa Claus” each Christmas dressing up as Santa - not sure who loved it more - Mark or the kids. He was an incredible guy and was easy to love. He made friends through all walks of life and cherished those relationships. This world is a lesser place without him. We are thankful for the promise of Heaven and being reunited again. The service to honor Mark's life will be Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 at Ridgepoint Church. The visitation will be also held at the church the evening before, Friday July 21st from 5:00-7:00 pm. A memorial has been established in Mark’s name with Ridgepoint Church, 8200 West 21st Street, Wichita, Kansas 67205. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary. Services will be Live Streamed though the church's website: www.ridgepointwichita.com/funeral

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