Mark Vincent Harkins, 82, of La Salle passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and a deep love for the outdoors. Per his wishes cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial mass will be Thursday April 9th in St. Patrick Church at 11. Reverend J.A Small, Parochial Vicar of Saint John Baptist de La Salle Parish will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Vincent Cemetery La Salle. Full military rites will be conducted by the La Salle / Oglesby Veterans Memorial Group. Visitation will be in the church on Thursday from 9 to 11. Mark was born on August 27, 1943, to Julian and Geraldine Harkins at St. Mary’s Hospital in LaSalle. He was the middle child of three sons. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a Military Police officer from 1964 to 1968. On March 20, 1971, he married the love of his life, Jeannine Rutherford, and together they built a life centered around family, dedication, and unwavering support for one another. Mark worked for 27 years as a welder for Illinois Power, retiring in 1999. In retirement, he fully embraced the things he loved most—spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting. These passions brought him peace and joy and created countless memories with those he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jeannine; his children, Michelle (Randy) Freschi, Erin (Chris) Bock, and Mark (Rachel) Harkins; as well as five grandchildren: Zach, Brea, Dakota, Braeden, and Brynlen; and six great-grandchildren: Brycen, Collins, Tae, Lennix, Jaxen, and Roman, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy in his life. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mark will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and the love he had for his family. His presence, guidance, and steady nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Jack and Dan; his nephew, Phillip; and many cousins. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mark’s memory to IVAR, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Shriners Children’s Hospital. On line condolences maybe expressed at www.burgessfh.com
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