Mark Friesch

Mark "Frank" Steven Friesch, age 72, passed away unexpectedly on February 22, 2025, in Fort Myers, Florida only days following a two-week Caribbean cruise celebrating his 50th wedding anniversary. Born September 1, 1952, in Hinsdale, Illinois, the eldest of three sons born to the late Jerome and Susann Friesch, Mark lived a vibrant and adventurous life filled with laughter, love and deep connections.

His family moved to Thiensville/Mequon, Wisconsin, and he graduated from Homestead High School in1970. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Art from UW-La Crosse in 1974. It was there that he met his child bride, Carol "Quilly" (Kowalsky), beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in shared passions and enduring friendship. During his college years, Mark was an active member of the ski club and worked as a DJ for the university's radio station under the name "Mark Slade," showcasing his early flair for communication and entertainment. Following their marriage in 1974, Mark and Carol lived in Madison, Verona and Mt. Horeb for over 35+ years until he retired in 2018 buying his dream home on Pine Lake in Rhinelander.

His professional journey led him into the world of television broadcasting, where he built a distinguished career in TV sales management. Mark's work took him across the country-from La Crosse to Madison, Springfield (IL), Palm Springs (CA), and finally back to Milwaukee. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades as a top sales manager and formed many lifelong friendships that reflected his charisma and dedication.

Mark's zest for life extended far beyond the office. He was an extraordinary chef whose gourmet meals were legendary among family and friends. His culinary talents were matched by his eclectic hobbies - he was an avid collector - he had a mindful collection of guns and knives and an unmindful collection of shoehorns, flashlights, food and hot sauces. His passion for gardening flourished both outdoors and in his beloved indoor "lab." Whether hunting or fishing, skiing down snowy slopes or diving beneath ocean waves, playing golf or strumming his guitar, Mark embraced every experience with enthusiasm.

He had a deep appreciation for travel and culture. His favorite destinations included Italy, Tahiti, Hawaii, France, Switzerland and the Caribbean islands. A true epicurean at heart, he delighted in sushi, oysters, calamari, conch-essentially all things from the sea.

Mark's warmth and humor left lasting impressions on everyone he met. He was known for his infectious smile, quick wit, memorable axioms, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His presence lit up every room he entered; he touched countless lives simply by being himself-a true friend with a generous spirit.

He is survived by his wife, Carol "Quilly" Friesch; sons Timothy Friesch (Carolynn) of Mt. Pleasant, WI and Steven Friesch of Rhinelander; cherished granddaughter Madelyn Friesch; brothers Andrew (Ann) Friesch of Cedarburg and John (Jane) Friesch of Shorewood; siblings-in-law Steve (Lorene) Kowalsky of Verona, Jean Weber of New Berlin, and Jim (Vicki) Kowalsky of Chicago; aunt Marlene Friesch of Manitowish Waters; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and their children who will carry forward his memory.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Clark and Helen Woodstock and George and Loraine Friesch; parents; in-laws Stan and Marylu Kowalsky; Uncle Tom Friesch; Aunt Jane Woodstock; brother-in-law Don Weber and dear friends Scott Hochschild and Bruce Lanham.

Mark lived each day with joy and intention. His legacy is one of laughter, meaningful conversations, spontaneous adventures near water or snow-covered peaks-and above all

else-a deep love for family and friends.

As we remember Mark - "Frank" to some, "Marden" to others - we hold close the memories that made him unforgettable. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

An Open House Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2025, from 02:00 - 05:00 PM at Stone Porch Alehouse, 950 Kimball Lane, Verona, WI. Everyone is welcome. Memories, stories, gratitude, laughter and love will be shared starting at 3:00 P.M.