Mark Edward Bellah

Memorial services for Mark Bellah will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Taylor Anderson officiating.
Mark Edward Bellah, a devoted father, son, brother, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with ALS and Lyme disease. He lived a life filled with passion, adventure, and unwavering love for those around him.
Born in Ponca City, Oklahoma, on June 6, 1964, to Donald Lee Bellah and Shirley Rae Bellah, Mark moved with his family to Alva before his fourth birthday. He graduated from Alva High School in 1982 and earned a degree in Business from Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
In 1985, Mark's entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase the legendary Nite Lite. He later founded NW Steamway and NL Production Inc., always eager to explore new business ventures. A man of boundless curiosity and determination, he thrived on intellectual challenges–earning his pilot's license, becoming a Ham radio operator (ARRL), and remodeling his historic home. His passions included boating, spelunking, fishing, hunting, and motorcycle riding. A natural musician, Mark played the trumpet, guitar, and piano.
Mark was known for his signature "Mark-isms" and the many nicknames he lovingly bestowed upon those around him. His quick wit and sense of humor brought joy to family and friends, leaving behind countless cherished memories.
Above all, Mark was devoted to his mother, Shirley, and his children, Lindsey and Brandon. He loved them unconditionally and took immense pride in his family.
Though his time was far too short, Mark lived his life to the fullest. He is survived by his daughter, Lindsey Nicole Bellah; his son, Brandon Mark Bellah; his loving mother, Shirley Bellah; his sister, Peggy Rathmell and her husband, John; his stepbrother, Douglas Ritter and his wife, Westline; his stepsister, Dana Roark and her husband, Dan; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Lee Bellah; his stepmother, Betty Jo Pangburn; and his grandparents, Lehman and Agatha Bellah and Edgar and Esther Kiphart.
The Bellah family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mary Benningfield Cline, Bradley Churchill, Alan Harzman, Sherry Harzman, Todd Holder, Rachel Spellman-Hughes, Jamie and Dennis Kilmer, and Kevin Landreth for their friendship and unwavering support. A special thank you also goes to Steve Madrid, PA-C, Dr. John Chiaffitelli, Julie Kamp, RN, and the Alva caregivers for their incredible compassion and care.
At a later date, the family will gather for a private burial in Tryon, Oklahoma.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions my be made in Mark's honor to: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA): https://foundation.aopa.org/ways-to-give
The International Lyme and Associated Diseases Educational Foundation (ILADEF): https://iladef.org/donation/
The ALS Association: https//www.als.org/get-involved/ways-give
Following the service, all are warmly invited to join the family for a celebration of life and lunch at the Alva Beer Company, 327 Barnes, Alva. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Marshall Funeral Home of Alva.