Mark H. Lafler

Mark H. Lafler, of Ransomville, NY, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Buffalo General Hospital. He was 70 years old.

Born December 29, 1955, in Tonawanda, NY, Mark was the son of the late Don H. and Phyllis (Hope) Lafler.

A graduate of Wilson High School, Class of 1975, where Mark excelled in basketball, earning himself a spot in the Wilson High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Mark dedicated his professional life to Jamestown Container Company, where he worked as a designer for an extraordinary 50 years before retiring in 2026. His talent, ingenuity, and commitment to excellence were evident throughout his distinguished career.

On November 25, 2006, Mark married the love of his life, Catherine "Cathi" Strome, in Appleton, New York. Together they built a life centered on family, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Mark was widely known in the racing community as the genius behind Lafler Chassis race cars. From Micro Sprints to TQ Midgets, many of his creations, affectionately referred to as his "babies," found their way to victory lane and captured the checkered flag. His mechanical brilliance, innovative spirit, and passion for racing earned him the respect and admiration of countless drivers and racing enthusiasts.

Beyond the racetrack, Mark enjoyed designing and building RC airplanes, a hobby that brought him great joy, especially when sharing it with his grandchildren. Whether creating race cars, airplanes, or cherished memories, Mark approached everything he did with extraordinary skill and enthusiasm.

Above all else, Mark cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend whose love and guidance will remain in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.

Besides his parents, Mark was predeceased by his stepson, Adam Jordan; Father-in-law, Donald Durnford; and by his beloved cats, Huey, Leroy, Sophie, Zoe, and Bynx.

Mark is survived by his devoted wife, Cathi Lafler; his loving children, Katie (Eddie III) Zastrow, Kelli (Justin Strassburg) Lafler, Jody (Andy Roneker) Jordan-Rose, Sarah (Mark) Oja, and Nic (Laura) Jordan; his cherished grandchildren, Conner, Andrew, Matthew, Josie, Colson, Eddie, Wyatt, and Noelle; his sisters and brother, Kathleen (Bruce) Bird, Pamela (Kurt) Oldenburg, and Ken (Selena) Lafler; mother-in-law, Joanne Durnford; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Anne (Dieter) Grothen and Jim (Elda) Strome; also survived by his former wife, Susan Volk Lafler, and many beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews; .

Arrangements have been entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES, INC., 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville, NY 14131. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date and at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses of the Buffalo General Hospital SICU for their compassionate care. A special thank you is extended to nurse Chelsea Barbero, whose kindness, dedication, and unwavering support went above and beyond for both Mark and Cathi during a difficult time.

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