Mark R. Houston passed away unexpectedly April 25, 2025 while on a trip to Moab, Utah. He was doing just what he loved to do. He was in a very beautiful place, outdoors, on his motorcycle and with a dear friend.
Mark was born July 7, 1956 in Torrance, California, and grew up in Palos Verdes, where he enjoyed surfing and the great outdoors of southern California. He enjoyed summer days in San Clemente and trips to Catalina Island. One of his highlights every year was backpacking in the Sierra with his dad, Dick Houston, brother Rick, and many family friends.
Mark attended San Diego State University and then transferred to Feather River College, fell in love with the area, and never left the Quincy area.
Mark left his talented signature throughout Plumas County. His fine craft of design and building is demonstrated in the many beautiful custom homes, commercial projects, cabinetry and remodels he constructed.
Mark had many wonderful passions. He loved to ski and surf, loved to travel and ride his motorcycles, and loved to hike in the mountains. He loved to read about history and the human spirit. He had a very healthy appetite for owning and driving Porsches and various motorcycles. His deep respect and appreciation for the Mountain Maidu culture and Indigenous cultures everywhere became an important part of his life. Most of all, he loved his relationships with his family and the people in his life.
Mark also loved to converse. He was known to enjoy his friends at Patty’s Morning Thunder, where he loved to discuss politics and world issues. We loved to call him “The Professor” since he was very well read and could discuss so many topics.
Mark had many dear friends in Quincy, including Lucinda Berdon, with whom he had a special relationship for 50 years. He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Jane Houston, and leaves his brother, Rick Houston (Renee), and sister, Christine Virden. He was beloved by all his nieces and nephews: Brent, Claire and Robert Houston, whom he enjoyed visiting in California; Katherine Anderson, David Virden (Jennifer) and Tyler Virden (Julia), whom he visited in Massachusetts. In more recent years, he enjoyed seeing his younger grand-nieces Brighton Anderson, Callie Houston, Aniyah Houston and Ellie Virden, as well as his grand-nephews Charlie, Liam, and Tristan Virden. Mark will be greatly missed by all.
A Celebration of Life and potluck gathering will be held June 21 at 4 p.m. at the Meadow Valley Schoolhouse. Beverages and appetizers will be provided. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Sierra Nevada Conservancy.
Rest in Power, Markie Mark.
