On Monday, July 21st, 2025, the Norman community lost one of its quiet treasures. Mark Ray Belden, 63, passed away peacefully in the town he called home his entire life. Born on April 10th, 1962, in Norman, Oklahoma, Mark spent more than six decades in service—not just to appliances, but to people.
For over 40 years, Mark owned and operated Belden Appliance Repair, a familiar name in Norman households. Whether it was a broken washer or a finicky fridge, his neighbors knew who to call. But those who knew Mark understood that it wasn’t just about fixing machines—it was about showing up. His work was an extension of his character: reliable, honest, and full of quiet kindness.
Mark was not a man of many words, but his presence always spoke volumes. A visit from him often came with a calm demeanor, a soft chuckle, and a sense that everything was going to be alright. His customers trusted him. His friends admired him. And his family deeply loved him.
He poured much of his energy into caring for his **mother, Judy Belden**, with devotion that could only be described as unwavering. Their bond was the heart of his world, and the care he gave her was a daily reminder of his gentle spirit and quiet strength.
Mark’s circle of family and love extends beyond Judy. He is survived by his brother Michael York, nephews Jonathon York and WilTomas, WilTomas’ wife Katherine, and beloved extended family— Aunt Lois Jean Belden, and cousins Carol Thompson, Cheryl Patrick, Joey Belden, James Arms, Bruce Arms, and Valerie Berryhill. Though Mark was preceded in death by many—including his biological mother Anna Jo, father Earnest Joe, brother Jim, grandmothers Anna Belle Snake and Joyce Crownover, and uncles Billy and Jimmy Belden, his connection to each of them lived on in the stories he told and the quiet remembrance he carried in his heart.
Outside of his work and family, Mark found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. He loved feeding the birds and squirrels that visited his backyard. He cherished the companionship of the many pets who shared his home over the years, none more dearly than his dog **Lucky**, who brought him great comfort and joy.
He didn’t seek accolades. He didn’t crave attention. He simply lived each day doing right by the people around him. He gave freely—of time, effort, love—until he could give no more.
Today, those who love him imagine him reunited with his grandmother and father, sharing a sandwich, sipping coffee, and watching *As the World Turns*—one of the quiet comforts he never tired of.
Norman has lost a deeply compassionate man. But in every appliance humming quietly after one of his repairs, in every act of quiet service offered in his spirit, and in every story passed down through the people who knew him, **Mark Belden lives on**.
Rest easy, Mark. You gave so much, and now it’s time to receive the peace you so deeply deserve.