Mark David Short

Mark David Short, 67, of Harper, Texas, passed away at his home in the country on July 23, 2026. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud step-grandfather who touched the lives of many with his wisdom and guidance.

Mark was born on April 10, 1959, in Amarillo, Texas, the second child of Harold Gene and Yvonne Short.

Mark married his high school sweetheart, Glenna, on August 11, 1979, beginning a loving partnership that spanned nearly 47 years. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and adventure. In 1985, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Megan Renee, who immediately stole her father's heart.

Throughout his life, Mark embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. He worked as a security guard at Galleria State Bank before becoming a Journeyman High Voltage Lineman with Houston Lighting and Power. Later, he had the opportunity to work alongside his father, Harold Gene, building custom barn-wood frames for Loomis Craft.

Mark eventually discovered his passion for computers and technology. He earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Applications Programming and Support from San Jacinto College. After working for several years at Bayshore Medical Center, he founded Systech Solutions, Inc. / Computer Repair of Pasadena in 1996. As his business grew, he developed a specialty in computer networking, medical billing, and electronic health records, becoming a trusted resource for many medical practices. His talent as a computer programmer and network engineer led to a long and successful career in business.

Committed to serving his community, Mark became an active member of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Pasadena, where he was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow Award for his dedication and service.

In 2005, Mark and Glenna fulfilled their dream of a quieter life by purchasing acreage in Harper, Texas. There, Mark created a large garden with the goal of living off the land and surrounded himself with the animals he loved. What began with two donkeys, June and Ward, eventually grew to include a zebra named Tatu and a cherished zonkey named Penelope. Mark had a remarkable gift with animals and was often described as an animal whisperer, caring for donkeys, goats, chickens, and many other creatures.

Mark was a man of many interests and talents. He taught himself to play both the guitar and harmonica and always enjoyed the challenge of a competitive game of chess. In recent years, he loved exploring old farms and ranches in search of unique treasures and hidden gems. He also found great joy in sharing his knowledge of hunting with family and friends, always willing to offer advice, encouragement, and stories from his own experiences.

Above all else, Mark treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. His love, wisdom, sense of humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He is also proceeded in death by his parents Harole Gene and Yvonne Short, his sister Penny Short-Goeser and uncle Gene Peggram.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Glenna Short; his daughter, Megan Short-Adkins, and her husband, Joey Adkins; and his step-grandchildren, Jeremy Adkins and Jordyn Adkins.

He is also survived by his aunt, Tommy Sue Peggram and her family; his sister, Paige Prater, and her husband, Shane Prater; and his brother-in-law, Craig Goeser.

He is lovingly remembered by his nephews Doug Waskow and wife Yvonne; Chris Highfill and wife Katrina; Matthew Prater and wife Sarah; Michael Prater and wife Aremy; Ryan Highfill and wife Ashley; Cody Goeser and wife Cheyan; and Nicholas Goeser; and by his niece Katie Highfill and her boyfriend, Brian Wilson.

His memory will also be cherished by his great-nieces and great-nephews: Madison Deaton and her husband, Trey and their daughter, Cohen; Caden Waskow; Laynie Waskow; Owen Prater; Emma Prater; Raelynn Goeser; and Monroe Goeser.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Deer Park Funeral Directors in Deer Park, Texas.

Family and friends are invited to continue the celebration with food and fellowship from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gringo's Mexican Kitchen, 2631 Underwood Road, La Porte, Texas 77571.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Mark's honor to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or to a charity of your choice. The family appreciates your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

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