Mark W. Shidler

Mark Shidler, 64, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 16, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Wilbur Earl Shidler Sr and Mary Sue Whitaker. Mark was a brilliant creative mind and the self-proclaimed “creative mad man” of Fyberdyne Laboratories, where he had been a dedicated member since 1992. A master prop builder and costumer, he poured his imagination and craftsmanship into every project. He also worked alongside Mark Racop at Fiberglass Freaks, helping build the iconic 1960s Batmobiles that brought joy to fans around the world. A graduate of Thomas Carr Howe High School, Class of 1980, Mark enjoyed participating in four school musicals during his high school years. His creativity, attention to detail, and passion for building never left him. Mark was known for being meticulous, incredibly talented, and, as those who loved him would say, stubborn as a mule. He wasn’t always a people person, but if he loved you, he loved you with all he had. His loyalty, humor, and generous heart left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa Lynn Shidler; his daughters, Kyra Danielle and Deidre Lynn; his mother, Mary Sue Whitaker; his stepmother, Maryanne Shidler; his parents-in-law, Howard and Lois New; his siblings, Mary Barton (David), Brion Whitaker (Heather), Melissa Smith (Patrick), Rod Kates (Amy), and Marianne; his sister-in-law, Tracie New; his grandchildren, Jason Wayne Rynard (Emily), Joshua William Rynard, and Daniel Adam Lee Riegelsperger; as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other relatives who loved him dearly. Mark was also a proud father figure to many bonus children and grandchildren, including Samantha Latifi (Arman), Amanda Erwin (Neil Thompson), Taylor Wilson, Jariekalynn Raine, Shanalin Connery, Charles Glenn, Rylee Crawford, and Thomas Latifi. The love and guidance he shared with them became an important part of his legacy. Mark was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur Earl Shidler Sr; his oldest sister, Lizbeth Baker; and his brother, Wilbur Earl Shidler Jr. Mark’s life was defined by creativity, craftsmanship, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved. Whether he was building props, creating costumes, restoring legendary vehicles, or sharing his vast knowledge with others, he left behind work that will continue to inspire and memories that will be cherished forever. Because Mark was never one for tradition, he had one final request for those who come to celebrate his life. Rather than wearing traditional funeral attire, Mark asked that everyone attend dressed as their favorite fantasy character, in cosplay, or in any fantasy-inspired clothing that brought them joy. And if you were ever lucky enough to receive a tiara from Mark, he would be honored if you wore it to his service. Nothing would have made him happier than seeing the people he loved celebrating his life in a way that reflected the imagination, creativity, and fun he embraced every day. His family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the countless creations he built, the lives he touched, and the family who loved him deeply. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Kennedy’s Disease Association in Mark’s honor. May the Force be with you. Fly high, Jedi.

Tributes

Mark W. Shidler

September 16, 1961 - July 21, 2026