Kelvin Mark Combs

Kelvin “Mark” Combs, age 67, a cherished soul with an exuberance for life, passed away on December 5, 2024, at Franciscan Health in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on October 5, 1957, in Seymour, Indiana, Mark lived a life that was defined by love, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to his family—a true testament to the man he was.

A proud 1975 graduate of Brownstown High School, Mark remained a dedicated Christian throughout his life. Mark's adventures were many, both in his outdoor pursuits—hiking with his faithful dog, April Mae Shyanne—and within the comforting confines of his home where the aroma of his famous “pawpaw’s pancakes” would beckon loved ones to the breakfast table.

Mark's affection for sports was equally vibrant. He found joy in watching his grandchildren play and was their biggest fan. He also enjoyed the thrill of Dallas Cowboys games, the fast-paced excitement of NASCAR, and the strategy of Purdue Men's Basketball. Evenings would often see him nestled comfortably in front of the television, a fond viewer of the classic series “Gunsmoke,” each episode a comforting reminder of simpler times.

As Christmas approached each year, the world around him transformed into a spectacular celebration as he immersed himself in the festive spirit, decorating his home with lights and trinkets that sparkled like the joy in his heart. His family, particularly his beloved wife of 48 years, Lily Thomas Combs, stood at the center of his universe. Together, they nurtured a bond that defined a life filled with unwavering support and love.

The legacy of Mark Combs continues through his loving children, son Jason Combs and his wife Teresa of Seymour, Indiana, and daughter Nancy Shasteen along with her life partner Brent Yates, also of Seymour. Mark was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Coleton Shasteen, Chaze Combs, Cambell Shasteen, and Mackenzie Bryson, who brought laughter and light into his life, becoming the joy of his days.

Mark's heart was as expansive as his generosity; he often placed the needs of others before his own, cultivating friendships that would last a lifetime. His spirit was infused with a childlike wonder that shone brightly in everything he did, from gardening to working in his yard. He was a big kid at heart—an adventurer, a helper, and a beacon of kindness.

In his passing, Mark is mourned by family and friends who will forever hold dear the memories of evenings filled with laughter, the tantalizing smell of breakfast wafting through the air, and the warmth of a loving smile. He joins those who have gone before him—his father, Morton Combs; his mother, Faye Wineiger Combs; his brother, David Combs; and an infant brother.

A visitation will be held on December 13, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM at Christensen Family Funeral Home - Winklepleck Chapel in Brownstown, Indiana. He will be laid to rest at City Cemetery in Seymour, Indiana. As family and friends gather to celebrate his remarkable life, they will find solace in the small moments that encapsulated Mark's spirit—a generous heart, a nurturing presence, and an enduring love that transcended the earthly bounds of life.

The family requests that memorial donations be directed to Indiana Donor Network, a cause near and dear to his heart as an organ recipient himself.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.