Mark Larry Harwood
August 25, 1957 - June 9, 2021
Obituary
“The history of the HAR”
(Adapted from an original version written by Mark circa 1973)
Mark Larry Harwood, better known as “Mark Har” or “The Har”, was born on the 25th day of August, 1957 to his parents, Helen and Larry Harwood. He was also welcomed by a big brother, Jeff. When Mark was four years old, they all moved to Washington state. In 1963, the family moved to Camp Lutherland in Federal Way where his parents were employed. In 1964, his baby sister Barb joined the family. Mark grew up at the camp and was lucky enough to spend his time swimming and fishing in Lake Killarney while making lifelong friendships, caring for animals, and being a general caretaker of the grounds etc. He developed an interest and aptitude for all sports. In his own words, he spent his “younger years as a superstar in athletics.” His soccer team took first place in state during his rookie year, and he “scooped” a letter in wrestling in junior high. Although he had difficulty acknowledging his talent, Mark was also a gifted artist. He completed many drawings and sketches that his family cherished. Early on, Mark also developed a love for rock music which he loved to blast loudly!
Mark graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School class of 1976 and moved to Renton, WA in 1978. He had several jobs including working for Robinsons Printing press that served the Federal Way paper. Around 1981, he started Harwood Janitorial, which serviced many restaurants. His dedication and work ethic were apparent in his policy to take only one day off per year: Christmas day. Mark moved back to Federal Way around 1982, and married Pam Robb (1982-1988). They were blessed with a son, Dallas, in 1984. Later he married Paula McLaughlin (1992-2000), and was blessed with another son, Alex, in 1993. Mark was a dedicated and devoted father.
In 2003, Mark joined the custodial team at the Fife School district, where he was employed until his death. He was known there for his laugh, a great sense of humor, and always a job well done. In addition to work, Mark prided himself on being the GREATEST VIKINGS AND SEAHAWKS FAN of all time! It was rare to see him in anything other than Vikings or Seahawk attire. He was a familiar face at Longacres then Emerald Downs, especially cheering on Harwood Thoroughbreds. Cooking and decorating for the holidays were some of Mark’s favorite pastimes. His greatest joy, though, was his family, especially his two grandsons: Everett and Hudson.
Mark died June 9, 2021 surrounded by loved ones. We are heartbroken to lose Mark, our beloved son, brother, dad, uncle, grandpa, and friend. Mark is survived by his mother, Helen, his siblings Jeffrey (Doris) and Barbara (David), his sons Dallas (Carissa) and Alex, and his grandsons Everett and Hudson, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister Renae, his father Larry, his best friend Steve “Mouse” Clark, and friends Jerry and Larry.
A memorial for Mark will be on July 24th all are asked to wear Seahawks or Viking colors in his honor. Please contact a family member or friend for details.
In lieu of flowers, The Mark Harwood Memorial Scholarship has been established with the Fife High School Scholarship Foundation
To make a Donation please visit www.fhssf.org or write checks out to FHSSF and send to PO Box 1270 Milton, WA 98354 and indicate it is for the Harwood Memorial Fund.
In his final days, Mark shared a song “Eagles Fly” as being especially meaningful to him during his life. We therefore conclude the “history of the Har” with the words of Sammy Hagar:
I often dreamed that I could sail through the sky
I’ve always wished I could fly
The simple life of a bird on the wing
Oh, Lord, I could sing
Take me away
Come on, fly me away
Lift me up so high
Where eagles fly
Praying for you all. I wish I could be there to hug you all at this difficult time. Peace be with you all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We love you all, and wish we could be there. Mark was such a special guy and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Sending hugs and our love ❤️ 😘
Dang, Mark, I sure miss you man! You were a great friend, and I will cherish our many memories for the rest of my life. Cribbage will never be the same again.
Rest In Peace, my sweet friend.
What a beautiful tribute to cousin Mark! Loved all the pictures included. Much love to all of you!❤️
Hugs and prayers to all of you. Mark will be missed. 😘❤🙏
What a beautiful tribute, and pictures. Cousin Mark you were loved. Prayers are with you all, and wish I could hug you.
Peace to the memory of Mark Larry Harwood, son, brother, father, grandfather, child of God. May your best memories with him last you until the Last Day.