Mark Damen Harlan

Thursday, September 3, 2020

Mark Damen Harlan, age still 29, the only child of John and Rita Harlan, born in Indianapolis on July 16, 1963, died Sunday, Aug. 30, 2020 from a motorcycle accident.

He graduated from South Putnam High School and joined the United States Army, serving his country as an air traffic controller and an armorer.

After the military, he went on to become a versatile, expert mechanic and fabricator, working on everything from motorcycles to diesel trucks. He was well-known in the motorsports industry, particularly Indy Cars, Formula Ford, and vintage race cars, specializing in gear boxes.

Mark loved cooking, camping, hunting with his dogs, antiques, history, and riding his Harley with his Cloven Hoof Brothers.

He was a dedicated father, loving husband, and loyal friend. He will be forever held dear by his father, John, and wife of 36 years, Ann; missed by his four children, Briana, Jennifer (Charles), John, and Justine (Jacob); and remembered by his six grandchildren, Halie, Zoey, October, Billie Ann, Harvey, and Dyre. He went doing what he believed in -- living life for all it’s worth. His loss is no small thing, but his gift of organ donation has saved the lives of others. “We learn from his example and sacrifice, moving forward with hope and determination.”

Services for Mark will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5.