Mark Jason Zinn

Mark Jason Zinn, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on January 24, 2025, at the age of 54.

Mark’s memory lives on through his wife of 29 years, Keena Zinn, and their three children, Celso (35), William (22), and Aleka (20), whom he supported with unwavering love and dedication, always putting them first. His large and loving family includes his mother, Carol Jackson, and stepfather, Michael Jackson; his stepmother, Darlene Zinn; his siblings, Mike Zinn (Sheila), Amy Zinn, Kati Ransom (Frankie), and Kim Fano (JP); as well as his in-laws, Rita and Steven Sowers, and Breana Sowers (Chris Hinkle). Mark was cherished by his 17 nieces and nephews and six great-nieces and nephews, who affectionately called him “Uncle Buck,” a nickname born from his childhood moniker, “Bucky.”

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Mary Slipher (Thompson) and Bill and Joann Zinn (Jamison); his father, Michael Zinn; and his niece, Hannah Murphy.

Mark lived a life full of love, laughter, and generosity. He never hesitated to lend a hand to those in need, embodying a selfless spirit that touched countless lives. His humor and playful nature were unmatched. Known for his signature rooster crow, he could light up a room with laughter. The crow was so iconic that friends and family showered him with chicken-themed gifts over the years.

Professionally, Mark was a skilled and dedicated inspector at HWC Engineering, a job he loved and where he worked for the past 14 years. His employer shared, “Mark represented the best of HWC—always a smile, a kind word, a consummate professional, and happy to help with anything…often putting us in the position of refereeing competing requests from clients who wanted Mark on their projects.”

Mark’s true happy place was Lake Tippecanoe, where he spent summers surrounded by loved ones. Early morning jet ski rides on the glassy water brought him peace and joy, and he loved sharing the lake’s magic with family and friends. Whether tinkering in the garage, teaching others to navigate the water, or simply watching the sunset over the lake, Mark’s love for those moments was infectious.

Beyond the lake and his career, Mark’s creativity and determination shone through in his woodworking and his knack for fixing anything. He enjoyed creating handmade pieces for friends and family and saw every remodel or repair project as a challenge he could conquer—rarely, if ever, needing to call in a professional.

Mark also had a deep love for animals, a trait that followed him throughout his life. As a child, he was known for bringing home stray pets—and even the occasional snake tucked into his pockets. That love never faded; as an adult, he adored his dogs and cared for them with the same kindness and devotion he showed to the people in his life.

Mark’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and generosity. His quick wit, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Memorial gatherings will be held on February 6th from 4:30–8:00 PM and on February 7th from 3:00–5:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life service following at 5:00 PM. Gatherings and the service will be held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, located at 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260 (Door #6).

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Mark’s memory to Southside Animal Shelter or St. Luke’s UMC - Midtown Angel Tree Mission.