Mark Silke

Mark Silke passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the age of 64, after a long health battle, surrounded by his wife, son, mother, and brothers.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Owen and Cornelia Silke, Mark grew up in Hacienda Heights, California, graduating with the Los Altos High School Class of 1979. He went on to study Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics at San Diego State University and Cal Poly Pomona before beginning his career in the HVAC industry in 1982.

In 1986, Mark made San Diego his home. Following in his father's footsteps, he built a highly successful career as an HVAC sales representative and later as the proud owner of Silke HVAC, Inc. Along the way, he formed lasting and cherished friendships within the San Diego HVAC community and beyond. He was a longstanding, proud, and active member of the ASHRAE Board of Governors, helping launch the ASHRAE Golf Tournament, a highlight for many in the industry.

Mark will be remembered for his epic sense of humor, his gift for lifting spirits with song and story, and his deep love for family. A wonderful singer and storyteller, he filled every room with laughter and joy. Kindhearted and gentle, he was a thoughtful friend who gave freely of his time and talents. He volunteered with the Epilepsy Foundation, Trauma Intervention Program (TIP), Blood Cancer United (formerly LLS), and Migrant Outreach, earning numerous awards including National Volunteer of the Year presented in Washington, D.C., for Epilepsy advocacy.

Beyond his professional and volunteer service, Mark found great joy in golf and pickleball, treasuring not only the games but also the friendships it brought.

Above all, Mark's legacy shines brightest in the love he shared with his family and the countless lives he touched with his generosity and kindness. He cherished fatherhood -relishing family trips, teaching life lessons, and coaching Little League-and was immensely proud of his son, Kyle. He also lived by Rule 62: "Don't take yourself too damn seriously." Mark truly lived happy, joyous, and free, carrying laughter, gratitude, and kindness into everything he did.

Mark will be forever in the hearts of his wife of 27 years, Claire; his son, Kyle; his mother, Connie; his brothers, Kevin and Deane and their wives Diane and Becky, and as uncle to Casey and Nick. He also leaves behind his Godchildren, many beloved cousins, and a wide circle of extended family and friends in both Ireland and the U.S. who knew and loved him dearly.

A viewing will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Poway-Bernardo Mortuary, 13243 Poway Road, with a Vigil Service at 6:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, a Rosary will be prayed at 10:55 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 15546 Pomerado Road, Poway. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow in the Holy Family Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations in Mark's memory can be made to:

Oaxaca Education Fund (formerly Migrant Outreach, OLMC)

You can donate securely online at https://oaxacaeducationfund.org/donate

You can also send us a check payable to Friends of the Poor; mail it to

14356 Marianopolis Way,

San Diego, CA 92129

Alternatively, contributions may be directed to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) at bloodcancerunited.org/donations.