Mark J. Westra

1950 - 2026

Mark J. Westra, age 75, of Greenfield, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Fishers Hospital. He was born in Beech Grove, IN on November 3, 1950, to Herman K. and Rose Mary (Carrier) Westra. He graduated from Beech Grove High School in 1968. Mark received his Bachelor's Degree from Indiana State University and later went on to receive his Master's Degree also Indiana State University. He married Luana "Alora" (Williams) on July 4, 1986, in Greenfield.

Mark taught History, Psychology, and Driver's Education at Warren Central for several years and was also the Owner and Operator of barnsignworks.com for over 40 years and loved creating and making signs. He was a member of the Balloon Federation of America (BFA). Mark also enjoyed woodworking overall. Mark's passion for western movies included an extensive knowledge and love for the art. He truly was a historian of the western genre and Mark traveled extensively to movie sets around the country and focusing on New Mexico. Mark's love of bluegrass music spanned his entire life and went back to the early days of Bill Monroe. Mark attended many Bean Blossom and other festivals featuring the best musicians in bluegrass history. He loved cooking and canning food for others. He was a commercial Hot Air Balloon Pilot of the Stars and Heights Balloon Team for over 20 years and an Eagle Scout. Mark enjoyed riding his Harley and snow skiing, hiking and just being with family. He ran two marathons in his early days. Mark was also a Sprint Car Racer and loved racing. He loved his community and doing the right thing for others and went above and beyond for his clients always.

He is survived by his wife, Alora Westra of Greenfield; children, Jason (Angie) Perry of Carmel, IN, and Jarrod Perry of Greenfield; two grandchildren, Jayden Perry and Savannah Perry; brother, Steven K. (Debra) Westra of Villa Grove, Colorado; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman K. and Rose Mary Westra.

A Private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by mail to the Hancock County Food Pantry, P.O. Box 244, Greenfield, IN 46140, or by website at https://www.hancockcountyfoodpantry.net/donate/, or to the Riley Children's Foundation, P.O. Box 3356, Indianapolis, IN 46206-3356, or by website at https://rileykids.org/.

Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.

Arrangements are being handled by Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory in Greenfield.