Mark Raymond Lyle

Mark Raymond Lyle was born March 26, 1957, and died unexpectedly March 27, 2016, while vacationing in Mexico. He grew up in Montesano, Washington, then moved to Redmond, Washington, where he met and married Marcia Hill. They raised their three beautiful children in North Bend, Washington.

Mark’s career revolved around his passion for cars and horsepower. He owned CJ Auto Parts in Renton for 18 years, then managed Kenworth Northwest for five years. In 2000, he joined Pacific Raceways as a track starter and worked his way up to NHRA Division 6 certification team starter. In 2012, Mark was named the official chief starter for the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. He was only the third person in the sport’s 61-year history to earn this prestigious national position. It was his dream job.

Mark is survived by his loving wife Marcia; his children Kim (Rob) Webster, Cari (fiance Mike Murray) Lyle and Chris (Candace) Lyle; his mother Pat Leslie; his brothers Ken Lyle, Jim Leslie, Bob Leslie and Tom Leslie; five grandchildren; and nine nieces and nephews.

There will be a private family memorial, and Pacific Raceways will host a big celebration August 5-7 during the 2016 NHRA Northwest Nationals.