Mark Patrick Ragan, born August 7, 1965, in Portland, Oregon, passed away suddenly on July 3, 2024, in Corvallis, Oregon. He was the beloved husband of Leslie Ragan and a devoted father to his sons John, Matthew, and Thomas.
Mark was a man of remarkable selflessness, evident even in his final act through organ donation, which touched many lives and was honored by the Corvallis Fire Department with an Honor Walk, Portland Fire Department staged to greet Mark as he arrived at the Donor hospital. Raised in Portland, he attended classes at Portland Community College's Fire Science program until he secured a position with the Portland Fire Department. His childhood dream of becoming a firefighter stemmed from early inspirations and never faltered.
Mark's career with the Portland Fire Department spanned 30-years of service, culminating in his retirement as a Fire Inspector Plans Reviewer in 2018. Post-retirement, he and Leslie settled on the coast, where he continued to serve with the Newport Fire Department for just over a year. Mark's commitment to his community and his profession was unwavering.
Beyond his career, Mark cherished his family above all else. He met Leslie on a blind date that blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by deep love and mutual respect. Together, they navigated life's joys and challenges, including raising their triplet sons, whom Mark adored and supported wholeheartedly.
An avid sports enthusiast, Mark enjoyed basketball, track, football, and was a devoted fan of the Oregon Ducks and the Los Angeles Chargers. He shared his passion for sports with his sons, bonding over games and season tickets.
Mark was known for his humility, preferring to shine the spotlight on others rather than himself. He was a man of faith, actively involved at Life Christian Center in Milwaukie, Oregon, where he served as head usher and marriage life group leader alongside Leslie.
His legacy of love and dedication extends beyond his immediate family to include his sister Sharon Walstrom (Doug), mother-in-law Peggy Nichols, brother in law Bill Nichols (Jeni) and nieces and nephews Chris, Sarah, Erik, Austin, and Mackenzie, and friends who were like family to him: Wade, Jill, and Nathan Carpenter, and Tom and Vicki Jackson. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Smiley Moss Ragan Jr. and Patricia Ragan, sister Kimberly, and father-in-law Victor Nichols.
Mark Patrick Ragan will be remembered for his protective nature, compassionate spirit, and infectious humor. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his memory will forever be cherished.
A celebration of Mark's life will be held on Saturday, July 20th, at 1:30pm at Clackamas High School, honoring a man whose life touched so many with his kindness and generosity.
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