Mark R. Van Elzen

Mark Van Elzen, age 60, passed away on Wednesday, October 4, 2017, following a battle with cancer. He grew up in Darboy, Wisconsin and joined the Army after high school. After four years of active service, he returned to the States to complete his education. Mark graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in three majors. He was recognized for graduating in the top 3% of his class. Mark was admitted to the charter class at the University of Wisconsin - Madison Veterinary School, graduation with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. He continued his education at Northwestern University, graduating with a Masters in Biotechnology with highest distinction. Mark spent over twenty-five years as a veterinarian in the Chicago area. Mark will be remembered for his love of animals, downhill skiing, and traveling. He shared his love of exploring new places with his son, and traveled with him to over twenty-one states, as well as France, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, and Mexico. When he was not traveling, he could be found reading medical journals and meticulously taking notes in a short hand script he developed himself. Never one to turn away an animal in need, two dogs, three cats, six ferrets, a hedgehog, and two geckos joined his family. Mark is survived by his parents: Tom and Yvonne; his son: Lance; two sisters: Michelle and Jackie; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. A service for Mark will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the Wichmann Funeral Home, Tri County Chapel, 1592 Oneida Street in Menasha. Family and friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home on Saturday morning from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. For more information or to share a memory of Mark, please visit www.wichmannfargo.com. Many people helped him complete his journey in comfort and peace. We thank you all.