Biography

Born in Burtonwood, Lancashire, England

January 20, 1954

Mark Forrest Behne was born to Jack and Doris Behne at a hospital in Burtonwood, Lancashire, England near the RAF airbase where his father was stationed with the US Airforce. Jack's US military involvement moved their family to Japan, Kansas, Alaska and, finally, California, where Mark lived most of his life.

During his childhood, Mark's fondest memories included owning two basset hounds named Molly and Happy Jack, hunting in Alaska, boyscouting in Kansas, and one-upping his sister, Linda. Family was very important to Mark who helped support his mom after his parents' divorce. He maintained affectionate relationships with both of his parents, his sister and grandmother, Ruby, as well as cousins and other extended family. Mark's dad, Jack, helped foster a love and knowledge of cars, which would become a lifelong passion for Mark.

In 1977, Mark met Michelle Trembly at Chapman Typesetting in Fullerton, California where they both worked. Their first date led to a first kiss and, a little less than a year later, to their wedding on June 17, 1978. They started their married life in Garden Grove and later moved to Tustin, where they bought their first house and raised their family. Mark's first child, Marlene, was born early in 1981 and Michael followed in the summer of 1982. After the kids were grown up, Mark and Michelle moved to Highland in 2003 where they lived until 2021. He and Michelle then moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to be near their son Michael and his family.

Mark's early love of Shelby Mustangs, muscle cars and dirt bikes led to many friendships, many of which Mark continued to enjoy up until his death. It also spurred him to restore several cars including a '68 Shelby GT350, a '66 Shelby GT350, a '70 Boss 302 Mustang originally owned by Gary Mathews and a '72 Ford Pantera. When he wasn't working in the garage or driving on a racetrack, Mark also enjoyed skiing, dirt bike riding, hiking and visiting with neighbors and friends both new and old.

Mark was well known as a dog lover, which led to many walks and many friendships. He was equally well known as a handyman who had a heart to help neighbors and friends with home repairs and car issues. He also had a love of classic rock and oldies, which he passed on to his children.

Throughout his life, Mark collected many things. This included car related souvenirs, antiques, insulators, rocks, fossils, and, what was most treasured, people with whom he forged lifelong friendships. His various interests took him and his family to many neighborhood potlucks, car shows, race tracks, car museums, rock shows, national parks and cross country camping trips to visit family.

During his life, Mark worked as a journeyman lithographer, handyman and painter, auto "ding" repairman, salesman, trailer transport driver, merchandiser and elementary school campus monitor.

Mark's life took a new direction when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the early part of 2019. He fought hard to stay with the family and friends he loved as he underwent chemotherapy and many medical procedures. On December 1, 2021, Mark went to be with his Savior while surrounded by his family at home.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing."

~ 1 Timothy 4:12, NKJV ~