Francis X. Marko

Francis "Fran" Marko, 86, of Beloit, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Huntington Memory Care in Janesville.
He was born on December 1, 1938, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, the son of John and Margaret Marko. Fran was a veteran of the United States Navy, proudly serving more than four years aboard the Destroyer USS Hanson. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Mitchell, on April 30, 1960, after sparks flew at the Rock County Fair beneath the glow of the Ferris wheel lights. They made their home in Beloit and together raised three children.
Fran worked for many years as an auto technician at Alliant Energy until his retirement, where his strong work ethic, quick wit, and mechanical skills were well known. Blessed with a natural talent for fixing things, he enjoyed taking objects apart just to put them back together-most notably VW Bugs, player pianos, and Charley Weaver Bartenders. A comedian at heart, he delighted in making people laugh-the more laughter he heard, the funnier he became. The holidays were special to Fran. He delighted neighborhood children as Dracula at Halloween and brought joy to his grandchildren as Santa at Christmas. Music was a lifelong passion, and he had a wonderful singing voice. He loved playing his player piano, filling his home with melodies for all who gathered around.
Fran and Betty shared a deep love for one another and cherished every moment they spent together. They were always up for an adventure with their family, creating many treasured memories in Door County, Wisconsin. They loved traveling, with favorites including Branson, Missouri, and Navy reunions across the country, as well as decorating and landscaping their home together. They also enjoyed time with friends, making special memories at NorthStar Casino, playing shuffleboard in the Beloit Moose Club league, taking part in Moose events, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.
Fran's greatest devotion was to his wife, Betty. Throughout her long journey with Alzheimer's dementia, he cared for her with unwavering patience, deep love, and steadfast loyalty. He was by her side through every challenge, providing comfort and companionship even in the most difficult moments. Their bond remained a guiding light in his life, reflecting the depth of his character and the warmth of his heart. Betty predeceased him on June 1, 2021.
He is survived by his three children, Mark (Crystal) Marko of Janesville, Sandi (Kevin) Carnes of Beloit, and Matthew (Donna) Marko of Prescott, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Josh) Kramar, Nicholas (Meagan) Carnes, Benjamin (Anna) Carnes, Madison Marko, and Tyler Marko; great-grandchildren, Carter, Declan, and Callum Carnes; Levi and Hannah Kramar; and Reed Carnes; his brother, Roland (Gerri) Marko of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews. Fran was predeceased by his parents, his sister Marilyn Marko, and his brothers Myron, John Jr. "June," and Gerald Marko.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of St. Croix Hospice, Huntington Memory Care, and Dr. Kevin O'Halloran of SSM Health for the exceptional compassion, gentle care, and kindness they showed to Fran.
A Memorial Service for Fran will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Daley Murphy Wisch & Associates Funeral Home and Crematorium, 2355 Cranston Rd., Beloit, WI. Visitation of Remembrance will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at East Lawn Cemetery in Beloit.