Mark McGaughey

Mark McGaughey

WISCONSIN DELLS - Mark McGaughey, 77 years old, was released from the torment of Lewy Body Dementia surrounded by family on August 5, 2024 at Riverwood Senior Living in Wisconsin Dells.

Mark was born in 1946 in Velasco, TX to Jack and Marion McGaughey. The McGaughey's lived in Kentucky, OH and Massachusetts before moving to Wisconsin. It was here in Wisconsin that Mark met his wife, Ellen, in 1969. They both joined the Peace Corps, learned Arabic and teaching English as a foreign language.

Their experience was cut short because of a revolution in Libya and Mark was drafted during the Vietnam War. Mark was stationed in Oklahoma where he taught the basics of the Pershing missile. He left the Army as a Sargent with wife and newborn daughter Jennifer, born in 1971, and they settled in Madison. Son Gabriel was born in 1976. Mark began his career as a State of Wisconsin employee in 1970 and retired after 35 years of public service. Mark and Ellen moved to Tall Timber Retreat in Lake Delton in 2002 which was their home base as they crossed the country in their beloved Airstream.

Mark was a devoted member of Alcoholics Anonymous, sponsoring many others over his 36 years of sobriety. Mark loved Ellen, his children: Jenny and Gabe, grandchildren: Al, Andy and Emma Golz and Holly McGaughey. Mark was also a lover of many dogs and cats in his lifetime. He was a good man.

Mark is survived by his immediate family and his brother, Noel of Houston, TX.

An informal Celebration of his Life is being planned by the family.

The Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Wisconsin Dells, WI assisted the family with arrangements. For On-Line condolences and information, go to www.pichafuneralhome.com.