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Mark Seidel Obituary
Mark Michael Seidel, age 71 of Kimberly, died unexpectedly at his home on August 15, 2017. Mark was born March 1, 1946, in Dorchester, Wisconsin, the son of Arthur and Gretchen (Fuchsgruber) Seidel. Mark and his family moved to Kimberly in July of 1955. He graduated from Kimberly High School in 1964 and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor's Degree. He taught at Seymour High School briefly before earning a Master's Degree in counseling. He then began his career as Guidance Counselor at Theisen Middle School in Fond du Lac, WI where he remained for 38 years, retiring in 2008.
Mark enjoyed participating in sports when he was younger and watching sports on TV as he got older. Before his dad's death in 2008, Mark spent many weekends keeping his dad company while watching sports together. Mark remained an avid and active tennis player his entire life, playing in a variety of tennis leagues and competitions throughout the state earlier in his life and in weekly doubles matches up to the time of his death. Scores of tennis trophies could be found on display wherever he could ?nd a place for them.
More than anything besides his parents and family, Mark loved his time working with young people as a guidance counselor at Theisen Middle School in Fond du Lac. He made an overwhelmingly positive impact on both students and faculty. In fact, his motto, "Let's Keep It Positive!" was known to all the people whose lives he touched, both young and old alike. His was a positive force in the lives of his family members and friends. Mark was a loving and devoted caregiver to his Aunt Ruth (Fuchsgruber) before her death in June 2009. After retirement, he became the primary caregiver to his beloved mother Gretchen, living with her and lovingly caring for her until her death in September 2016. He was a positive role model to his brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Mark enjoyed time spent with family and friends, especially when there was food involved. He loved to eat! One of his favorite spots to meet with family or friends was at the Golden Corral where he liked to take advantage of both the breakfast and lunch fare during his three-hour visits. The rest of his day was often spent playing or watching sporting events or monitoring the financial markets.
Mark knew the value of friendship, both old and new. He kept in touch with many high school friends as well as former co-workers with whom he had forged lifelong friendships. Each and every friend was important to him. He loved talking with them. While surrounded by family members and friends at his 70th birthday surprise party, he described it as "the best day of my life."
Above all, Mark was a loving and caring brother to his seven siblings and their spouses, and a "go to" uncle to so many of his nephews and nieces. He loved sharing time with his family. His compassion, his support, sense of humor, willingness to listen, desire to know what was happening in your life, all these qualities and more will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Mark was a kind and gentle soul. We who loved him just wanted him with us for a lot longer.
Mark is survived by his siblings; Dr. Barry (Donah) Seidel, Minocqua; Vicki (Rick) Looze, Eagan, MN; Mary (Ken) Thiele, Winter Haven, FL; Kathy (Ted) Van Grinsven, Kimberly; Judy (John) Reider, Kimberly; John (Pat) Seidel, Bonduel; Tom (Barb) Seidel, Fond du Lac; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents and his nephews; Jeff Thiele and Nicholas Reider.
The funeral liturgy for Mark will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 11:00 AM at HOLY SPIRT PARISH, 600 E. Kimberly Ave. A time of visitation will be held on Friday, August 18, 2017 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at JANSEN FARGO FUNERAL HOME, and on Saturday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service at the church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Mark Seidel Memorial Keep It Positive Scholarship Fund at the Theisen Middle School.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Seidel
Sponsored by Wichmann Funeral Home - Jansen Fargo Funeral Home.
Dennis and Nancy Kilsdonk
August 22, 2019
We just recently attended my 55th class reunion from Kimberly High School and were so very sorry and saddened to learn of Mark's passing. Mark and I lived in the same neighborhood, so we spent a lot of time playing baseball in the park, and in the streets near our homes, and often served Mass together. My wife and I always enjoyed catching up with him at the class reunions. We loved his sense of humor and compassion. Nancy had Mark's Aunt Ruth as her 4th grade teacher at Holy Name, and we know that Mark was so very good to her. Our deepest sympathies to his siblings and their families, as he is no doubt truly missed.
Dave Van Lieshout Green Valley, Az
August 22, 2017
My condolences to all of the Seidel family. I have many fond memories spent playing football and baseball in Roosevelt park and basketball on all of our driveways as kids in Kimberly with Mark, the Kroner's, Cattinah's, and all the others. Over the years I have had contact with many of the students he counseled and they had only good things to say. One our last times together was after we flunked Uncle Sam's physical in 1968. Just saw this online in AZ.
Chuck Bongers
August 20, 2017
I remember Mark Seidel as being a steadfast friend. Never getting too excited and always willing to be part of the joke or be the jokester. He was just a really nice guy and had his priorities in order. While I never knew him real well, it was the way he impressed me. I'll miss him!
Karen Holzmann
August 19, 2017
Mr. Seidel was an inspiration to all. I remember him when I attended Theisen Jr. High school in the early 1970's and I now work at Theisen as a cook in the kitchen. He always looked forward to Turkey Haystack day when he visited in the recent years. May there be Turkey Hay Stack in heaven!Whenever we serve Turkey Haystack you will be in our thoughts. He always kept it positive.
Jim Looze
August 19, 2017
Condolences and prayer to the family. Jim and Leann Looze
judi Van Hout Jansen
August 18, 2017
Mark was one of my favorite classmates, he was a definite positive leader of the group of friends we hung around with. Just three years ago he was M.C. at our 50th class reunion and did a great job. I will remember Mark for uniqueness,giving and honest, and loving character. He will be missed by all of us in the class of 1964. Judi Van Hout Jansen
Nancy Kimla
August 18, 2017
I had the privilege to work with Mark at Theisen. I will always respect his genuine dedication to the success for the students and faculty of Theisen. May he Rest in Peace.
Deb Rasner
August 18, 2017
Sending prayers to all of Mark's family. He was an amazing person all around. I was very fortunate to be a member of Mark's Theisen family. He will forever be remembered for his positivity, and his gift of genuinely caring about every student and faculty member at Thiesen. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Karen Fischer
August 18, 2017
Bless you Mr. Seidel in your new journey and for all the incredible good you did for the young people at Theisen.
John Eiting
August 18, 2017
condolences and prayers to the family. hope all is well with the brothers and sisters.
Tim Stankewicz
August 17, 2017
To the family, my condolences on what was a sudden and unexpected loss of a really nice guy. I was Mark's tennis doubles partner playing the deuce court for close to 20 years in the "battleground" of Wisconsin and Western District tournaments in our 30's and 40's. I was a happy participant in helping accumulate his horde of tennis trophies and awards. To point out the soft part of his heart, he once remarked to me during the later stage of a tournament match that we ought to let this other team win one game so they wouldn't feel so bad- I nixed that idea. It's too bad the good die young.
Denise Clumpner
August 18, 2017
Mark was always upbeat, positive and full of mischief! We met in 1985 when I began my teaching career at Theisen, and I so admired him and how he enjoyef the students and they enjoyed him. I also enjoyed all the giggling he, Nancy Pagel and I did during our years together tbere, and at the yearly staff banquet. The impact he made on the thousands of lives he touched will be felt forever! If heaven has a stock market, Mark is checking it right now! Love and comfort to Mark's family as they grieve this amazing man we were all blessed to know and love.
Sue Schuster
August 17, 2017
I was one of Mr. Seidel's students when he just started teaching at Seymour Hugh School. He wasn't much older than us! Wonderful teacher and a great person. My condolences to his family.
Tim Noonan
August 17, 2017
Can't add to what has already been said about this unique man. Stay positive.
Mary Gerritts Stusek
August 17, 2017
Mark, what a source of wit and wisdom, caring, loyalty and love. We've shared a lot of life from high school speech class thru Madison, careers to life, fitness to health issues. We even weathered the stock market. And despite what you think, I never had a hot tip I didn't share with you. Thank you for enriching our lives. It will be hard without you, but we're all going to try to keep it positive
Jenny Montano
August 17, 2017
This truly breaks my heart! I had the wonderful honor of doing my practicum with Me. Seidel at Theisen Middle School! I learned to be a school counselor from him! He was a great mentor to me! I will always remember his positive energy and upbeat personality! I pray for God's healing during this difficult time!
Rod Muenster
August 17, 2017
I am very sad to hear of Mark's passing. I played tennis with Mark on Tuesdays at the racquet club during the winter months. Mark always made me feel ok with myself as he often beat the pants off of me. I'll miss him.
Judy Gerritts Canter
August 17, 2017
It broke my heart to hear of Mark's death. We've been friends since 1962. What a combination of great qualities Mark possessed...that incredible humor, caring, warmth, unquenchable good spirits, and unsurpassed loyalty first to family followed by his amazing wide circle of friends. And no one could laugh at himself like Mark could. It was such fun knowing you, Mark. Wish you would have stayed around, in good health, at least 30 more years.
Terry D'Amato
August 17, 2017
As I'm reading through the condolence messages, it's just remarkable how many are from former students. Mark was a man who truly loved what it did because it showed. He was so amazing with the kids and middle school is such an awkward time, but he really got through to them. As a parent of 2 daughters who attended Theisen during his time there, I was truly grateful for his accessibility, not only to them, but the parents too. He will be truly missed by so many.
Jeanne Halfmann
August 17, 2017
My sincere sympathy to the Seidel family. Mr. Seidel was the best and had so much patience with kids. I was at Theisen in the 80's and have so many great memories of him.
Bob Lloyd
August 17, 2017
Mark was an outstanding counselor when I was a student at Theisen. Easy to talk to and always positive. I experienced the same level of optimism when I became a colleague.
He will be missed by many!
Carol & Wayne Lamers
August 17, 2017
Condolences to the Seidel family. Sorry to hear of your loss.
Christine (Skrenes)
August 17, 2017
Wow... such a nice obituary written. I haven't ever read one like that...to be encouraging and not just fact. And what a nice man. I remember him when attended Theisen. My condolences.
Kim (Minnick) Rickert
August 17, 2017
Mr. Seidel, You will be greatly missed. Thank you for the I had with you at Theisen.
Stephanie Gehde
August 17, 2017
He made a huge impact on life. During my time at theisen middle school I was battling many demons. And if it wasn't for him. I don't think I would be here today. He checked on me daily at school. He was one of the greatest men.
Melanie and John Fox
August 17, 2017
We were so very shocked and saddened to hear of Mark's passing. We were friends with Mark for many years as John played basketball with him on many teams. Mark always had to bring the ball down the court as he was the "best point guard and ball handler" (also one of the shortest members of the team). I remember spending many Super Bowl and Final Four parties with him and always enjoyed his stories of glory. He was a great friend who had many other dear friends -- we will miss him dearly.
Melanie and John Fox
Kate Hietpas
August 17, 2017
Sorry for your loss John & Pat, and family. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Kate & Terry (Hermus)
Paul Wulterkens
August 17, 2017
I remember Mark and his family moving into the neighborhood in Kimberly. I knew him then as a classmate at Holy Name Grade School. We ran into each other on a golf course in Madison in the late '60's and 40 years later at the Rennes where he was visiting his dad.
Paul and Valerie Galleske and family
August 17, 2017
You were a great neighbor and friend. Our sympathies to your family. May the Lord comfort you in this difficult time. We will keep you in our prayers.
Julie Olson Gruening
August 17, 2017
Mr. Seidel was truly a gift and I was blessed to know him as a student at Theisen as well as a colleague in the district as an adult. His positivity was always showing and his compassion for others was beautiful. He will be truly missed.
Joel Templin
August 17, 2017
Very sorry to hear... I play tennis to this day, huge part of my life and a lot of the friendships and life experiences I've had are because of the sport... Mark influenced my love of tennis, thank you!!! You will be missed.
Chris Demos
August 17, 2017
"Let's keep it positive" was the statement made every morning over the loudspeaker: I was lucky enough to have completed an internship with Mr. Seidel and you could truly see how the kids gravitated towards him! He always said that he never worked a day in his life since he loved his job so much and never considered it 'work'. He was just as lucky of a man as the kids were that surrounded him! I'm so very sorry to hear of his passing! He was a wonderful man who influenced so many in a positive way! My condolences.
Evelyn McLean-Cowan
August 17, 2017
Mr. Seidel left a lasting positive impact on many students and made a difference in their lives. He will be remembered.
Karyn (Montgomery) Todor
August 17, 2017
My dad (Roy Montgomery) sure did love playing tennis with Mark in their younger days. Im sure dad is happy to have a partner to whack the ball around with - he passed away in March. Mark was always one of my favorite of Dad's friends growing up. Our most heartfelt condolences!!!
Hans-Peter Kohlhoff
August 17, 2017
Mark was a great educator. I enjoyed working with him.
Kimberly Henning
August 17, 2017
I am very sad to hear of Mark's passing. He will truly be missed, especially his visits to Theisen Middle School. Mark always offered a smile, and asked, "How are you doing"? Sending my thoughts and prayers, and heartfelt sympathy to Mark's family. I am very sorry for your loss.
Bethany
August 17, 2017
Mr. Seidel got me through one of the toughest experiences of my life and at such a young age. I am truly sadden to hear about his passing. Thank you for being an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on,a positive influence, and gracious giver of hall passes Mr. Seidel! Rest In Peace.
Tina (Frassetto) Keller
August 17, 2017
Dear Judy & John, I Am so so sorry to hear of the loss of Mark. He always had a smile when I'd see him in church. Prayers to u and your family ????????
Peggy Breister
August 17, 2017
He was a caring and compassionate counselor who made a positive impact on my life.
Rhody Launders
August 17, 2017
You were always someone I could talk you and you always listened. I never have forgotten you. God Bless! Rhody Launders High School Class of 1980
Melanie Stephany Bonnell
August 17, 2017
Thanks for the fun and guidance Mr. Seidel! You were the best!
Ted Eischeid
August 17, 2017
Mark was unique, always a hoot. He was passionate about kids and being a counselor to them at Theisen. I shared many a laugh with Mark and I appreciated his friendship. I'm sad he has died so young, but I think it was a life well lived. Point, match, set, and game to Mr. Seidel!
Ashley Steffes
August 17, 2017
Rest In Peace Mr. Seidel. Thank you for always being there for anyone when we needed someone. You were passionate, kind and loved by many. Fly high with Angels With Love, Ashley
Theron Bashaw
August 17, 2017
Rest In Peace Mr. Seidel. Thank you for always listening.
Ryan Donohue
August 16, 2017
I am extremely sorry for your loss, Mark was an icon at Theisen Junior high when we were in school back in the late 80's.. he was always there for you when you needed him and was such a wonderful person inside and out.. he will be sorely missed .. first class gentleman
Lori (Ochs) Slagle
August 17, 2017
Thank you for allowing me to be me. You said "be happy, you're loud but it's ok, as long as your happy loud". Thank you for all the great times at Theison and after. You will be missed.
Traci Soeller
August 17, 2017
Mr. Seidel was my counselor at Theisen and I'll never forget his kindness to me and how he was always positive, smiling and happy. He was a great guy. My deepest condolences to his family.
Linda Gribben
August 17, 2017
I was deeply saddened to hear of Mark's passing. Having taught with him at Theisen I witnessed his passion for students, family, friends, and life. You could always count on seeing him visiting with students and staff on turkey haystacks day, even after he retired. He was a great role model and educator who will be missed.Mostly, however, I will deeply miss his smile and friendship. Rest In Peace, Mark.
Aida Mityas
August 16, 2017
My deepest sympathy to Tom and his family for the loss of his wonderful positive big brother !
Mark has certainly touched and influenced a lot of young people in the most positive , caring manner
Hope you will be comforted to know that he has lived a good life and is now in a better place with our Heaven Father
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