Mark Richard Humphries

Mark Humphries, 88, of Twin Falls, passed away November 8, 2024. He was born August 30, 1936 in Jerome, Idaho to parents Corbett Humphries and Sally Leo Humphries. Mark was the youngest of 8 children. He graduated from Jerome High School and enlisted in the United States Army.

Mark’s journey was not an easy one, but it was a journey filled with profound strength, unwavering love, and a deep commitment to his family, his friends, and his country.

Mark was a warrior in every sense of the word. Serving his country with unparalleled dedication, he completed six tours in Vietnam and two tours in Korea. His service was marked by bravery beyond measure, earning him three Purple Hearts as a testament to the sacrifices he made on the battlefield. Mark’s scars were not just physical – though his back, knee, and face bore the marks of his service – but also the invisible scars of loss and the weight of surviving when so many of his brothers-in-arms did not. He was in a three-level building when it was bombed, a tragedy that took the lives of many of his comrades but left Mark with a strength that would carry him through the rest of his life. Mark received a letter of accommodation from General William Westmoreland, Chief of Staff for the United States Army for being part of his Security Detail whenever General Westmoreland came to Vietnam.

After retirement, Mark worked as a Police Officer and then worked for his brother, Jim, running heavy equipment in Craig, Colorado, in a coal mine. Mark also worked in Alaska for many years as a heavy equipment operator.

Mark was also an avid power lifter with lifetime friend, Gerald Engleberg, a passion he carried with him throughout his life. This was a testament to his strength both physical and mental. His dedication to fitness reflected his unyielding determination in all aspects of life, whether lifting weights or lifting the spirits of those around him.

Mark was also a man who loved deeply, particularly the love of his life, Tal Kun Yu. He and his wife, who passed before him, shared a beautiful life together. They were inseparable travelling, camping, and fishing side by side and finding peace and joy in nature’s simplicity. Their love, which began in 1972 when they married, was a partnership built on mutual respect, shared adventures, and an enduring devotion. 

Mark’s life was also shaped by the family that raised him. His mother passed when he was just two years old, and it was Mitch’s mother (Mark’s sister) who stepped in to care for him. Mark and Mitch, though generations apart, became like brothers, both serving in the war together and both sharing the bond of survival and sacrifice. Mitch was there for Mark throughout the years as a friend, companion, and a constant presence in his life. The bond between them was unbreakable, and their shared experiences in the war forged a connection that nothing could sever.

Mark was a protector in every sense of the word. Known for his gentlemanly nature, he always defended and protected those who needed it, especially women, whom he treated with nothing but respect and care. 

Perhaps one of Mark’s greatest passions was fly fishing. It was more than just a hobby - it was a way of life. He traveled the world from England to Australia to chase the perfect catch. But for Mark, it wasn’t about the fish. It was about the quiet solitude, the connection with nature, and the peace that came from casting his line into the water. 

Mark’s journey brought him to Canyons Retirement in 2019. Mark will be remembered for his unwavering kindness and his constant willingness to brighten the day of everyone around him. Mark loved his cup of coffee, often sharing it with staff or fellow residents, to connect with those around him. 

Mark was preceded in death by his wife, Tal Kun Yu; his parents; and his brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his daughter, Sony Barber of College Station, Texas; daughter, Un Suk Chang of Alameda, California; son, Tony Humphries of Sanford, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

A special heartfelt Thank You to all the staff at Canyons Retirement Community and Auburn Crest Home Health and Hospice for their excellent care of Mark Humphries.

Memories and condolences may be shared on Mark’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.