Mark S. Haake

Mark Steven Haake, age 74, of West Chester, PA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on March 24, 2025.

He was born and raised in Kankakee, Illinois to the late Elmer and Norma Jean (nee Horchem) Haake. After graduating high school, Mark attended Bradley University in Peoria, IL. While in high school, he worked part time at McDonald’s, and after college, he returned to McDonald’s, where he continued his career for 30 years. He held numerous positions, including supervising production of commercials and training films, writing training manuals, designing the interior of McDonald’s restaurants, and development of new locations.

In 1986, Mark and Linda relocated their family to West Chester, Pennsylvania after Mark was transferred for work. While raising his family, Mark could be spotted at every swim meet, dance recital, ice skating competition, field hockey, rugby, and soccer game. Mark was a softball coach for many of his daughter’s teams as well as his oldest granddaughter’s team, and even served as President of the West Chester Girls’ Softball Association for many years. Mark also spent his time providing meals for West Chester First Presbyterian’s Men’s Luncheons and Meals 2 Go.

In his retirement, Mark loved traveling with his wife Linda. Some of his most memorable trips were to Aruba, Hawaii, Italy, and an extended river cruise through Germany, Austria and Hungary. Mark and Linda were also frequently at their beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware, where he enjoyed sitting on the beach and reading historical or nonfiction novels, and working on crossword puzzles.

In addition to his travels, Mark absolutely delighted in spending time with his family. Whenever the family was gathered for parties, beach trips, or events, Mark was truly happy. An avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, he and his family were all together for the 2025 Superbowl to watch the Eagles’ victory.

Mark was the beloved husband of Linda A. (nee Bamford) Haake, with whom he shared 42 years of marriage; loving father of Hilary Haake (Craig Price), Melissa Luciany (Joseph), and Melanie Haake (Kevin Michels); caring grandfather of Kaylyn Foster, Alexander Luciany, Arielle Luciany, Evelyn Michels, and one on-the-way; dear brother of Kathy Haake.

Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of life on April 5, 2025 at the First Presbyterian Church of West Chester, 130 W. Miner Street, West Chester, PA, 19382. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service and luncheon at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the First Presbyterian Church of West Chester, would be appreciated.