Mark Kevin Harwell

Mark passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 15, 2022, at that age of 60 years. He is survived by his parents, Jimmy and Geneva Harwell; wife, Ruth Harwell; daughters Jessica Cruz (Kyle) and Amanda Rogers (Christopher); brothers Greg (Kathy) and Lance; and granddaughters Michaela, Samantha, Riley and Hannah.

Mark was born to Jimmy and Geneva Harwell and raised in Richmond, California until 1982 when he moved to Tempe, Arizona to attend college at Arizona State University and obtain his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. 

Mark met his beloved wife in 1978 over the CB radio (the social media of days gone by). Mark’s handle was Dr. Jekyll (DJ) and Ruth’s was Hummingbird. Mark married his wife Ruth in August 1983 in Richmond, California and promptly moved to Tempe, Arizona where their two daughters were born.  In August 1989, the family then moved to Poway for a job transfer where they lived and raised their daughters for 27 years. In 2017, Mark and Ruth moved to their current property in Ramona where Mark enjoyed growing trees and plants.

As a youth, Mark loved fixing things. He rebuilt the engine of his 1971 VW bug with his friend Ken. He worked for Longs Drug, Shell Gas Station, The Glenn frame shop, and Richmond Parks and Recreation as a summer camp counselor. As an adult, Mark worked as a Test Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Compliance Engineer and most recently at his favorite company as an Engineering Manager, General Atomics. Mark loved the people, culture, important work, and the celebrations, especially Halloween!

Mark was very active during his years at Mt. Olive Church. He was an Elder for several years and helped renovate the church as part of the Refresh Our Church committee helping to build the rock wall in the sanctuary as well as one of the playhouses on the playground.

Mark loved his Carlyle Blue 2012 C6 GS Corvette.  He belonged to the North County Corvette Club and served as president. Mark enjoyed all things Corvette since childhood.

Mark was always ready to help family and friends with projects. Mark had an amazing sense of humor and lived a full life. He will be missed by all.

Viewing will be held on June 23rd from 5-8 pm at Bonham Brothers and Stewart Mortuary in Ramona. The funeral services will take place on June 24th at 9 am at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Poway, CA followed by a graveside service in Murrieta. Donations to honor Mark can be made to Penasquitos Lutheran Church, Mount Olive Lutheran Church, the American Heart Association or National Park Foundation.

Bonham Bros & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

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