Markham Lyon Corlew Jr.

Markham Lyon Corlew JR was born to Markham Lyon Corlew SR & Wanda Joan Corlew on August 21, 1971. Markham was a very happy, curious baby, with the brightest red hair and freckles, he was awarded the nickname Rooster. Within a year his baby brother was born, it is said that they were a tiny tornado and duo for the duration of his life.

The local Plaster Creek is where he met and formed lifelong relationships with the neighborhood kids. Even into adulthood Mark made friends wherever he went, he enjoyed meeting new people and being a good friend was of the utmost importance to him.

Markie’s life was met with many hardships before becoming an adult. The accidental death of his oldest brother, and a nearly fatal car accident of his other older brother were a devastating blow. During his childhood his family home burned down and left himself and his family displaced. Mark also barely survived a horrifying electrocution accident that had him near death and severely burned, he was hospitalized for a while. Mark had the amazing ability to take the hardships from his life and turn it into a need to help those who are going through hardships themselves.

Mark had many happy memories of spending time at his Grandparents home near Johnson Park as a child. It was here that he developed his love for the outdoors and his desire for adventure. Fishing was a particular favorite of his and he never missed an opportunity to get out and fish. Mark also had a fondness for animals and no pet ever went hungry when Mark was around!

Later, as a young adult Markie settled in on the West Side where he found his work in all aspects of building and remodeling trades, he quickly became the man to contact for help or questions. Mark was very skilled at his work and took pride in getting the job done right, but he was prouder to be able to use his skills to help family or friends that needed it. He especially loved it when one of his projects could include his sister Phyllis.

Much to Mark’s surprise he became a father, despite that doctors had told him this was not possible due to the electrocution. Even though fatherhood was a struggle Mark was proud of his beautiful daughter Kaitlynn.

Mark had a great love of music, he taught himself to play many instruments but gravitated towards his guitar. While honing his craft playing or writing music, he became a member in a few bands, but the most memorable one for most was with Tempermetal where he proudly performed beside his little brother John for many fundraisers and events over the years.

Being an energetic person, he also fully enjoyed all year fishing, his boat, tools, gathering with family and friends, and the profound love of food! A good dinner for him had veggies, bread and a must have glass of milk with one ice cube in it! He would not have one without the other. Last but not least- he was the Lions football team's biggest and most dedicated fan; he was sure they were going to make it all the way in his lifetime.

Mark had a devotion to his family that was unmatched. He and his siblings had an incredible bond that meant the world to him. Mark was a protective brother, especially to his youngest sister Carrie Lee.

A little under two years ago, Markie was placed in hospice and given less than 6 months to live due to a failing heart. His condition did not stop him no matter how bad he felt, he did what he could to stay active and involved in the lives of people he loved. During this time, he moved in with his sister Wanda where they created lasting memories over home cooked meals and late-night movies. Markie looked forward to outings with just his siblings that they dubbed brother sister time where they shared memories and laughter and bonded. In this time, he also grew an enjoyment for hot wheel competition racing with friends he knew and loved. Mark also expanded his hobby to include collecting and learning about coins.

His loved ones are grateful for the two special people that were sent to care for him from Hospice, they assured his quality of life in all aspects. Per Markie style he formed a bond with them over 21 months and they will now always be a part of his family.

All who knew Markie described him as a fun, very humorous, giving, strong force, a Viking if you will-he faced all life’s curve balls with a smile, love and hope, you felt listened to, noticed and loved in his presence. He will be severely missed by those that loved him.

Mark passed away on March 9, 2024, at the age of 52, with his family by his side. Mark was preceded in death by his mother Wanda (Alexander) Corlew, his brothers Dennis Ray Pride, Richard Lee Morrison, Jerry John Hubscher III (Butch) and his nieces Brianna Corlew and Alyssa Mitchell. Mark is survived by his father Marham Corlew, Sr. (Barb), his daughter Kaitlynn Hamblin, granddaughters Raelynn and Madisynn; his siblings John Corlew, Wanda Morrison, Phyllis Hubscher, Carrie Brown, Dennis Corlew, Bryon Pride, Jody Humphrey, Roberta Savickas, as well as many Nieces and Nephews, Aunts and Uncles. Extended family Beth Wellman, Connor Wellman, and Ana Lauria. A service to remember Mark’s life will be held on Sunday March 17, 2024, at from 2 – 8pm at the American Legion, Post 47, 3811 W River Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321. To leave a memory or sign the guest book, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com