Kimberly "Kim" Dawn Mark

Kimberly “Kim” Dawn Mark, age 56, of Columbus, Minnesota, passed away suddenly on October 4, 2025.

Kim was an artist at heart, known for her beautiful abstract creations with acrylics. She was deeply involved with the Forest Lake and the Lino Lakes American Legions, where she enjoyed running the pull tabs and being part of the community. Kim loved to travel, especially on memorable girls’ trips to the North Shore. She was also an author and publisher of short stories, sharing her creativity through her writing.

A lover of music, Kim enjoyed attending concerts, and she had a deep affection for animals—especially her dogs. Above all, Kim cherished her family and the time she spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara. She is survived by her husband, Kevin; father, Archie (Russ Peterson) Thompson; stepfather, Bart (JoAnn Chrusciel) Friedhoff; sister, Kari Brenes; sister-in-law, Kelly (Roger) Clore; niece, Mariya (Donell Burton) Brenes; great-niece, Mya Burton; great-nephew, Dante Burton; and many other family members and close friends.

A Celebration of Kim’s Life will be held from 2:00–8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W Broadway Ave, Forest Lake. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family.

HUG O' WAR

I will not play at tug o' war.
I'd rather play at hug o' war,
Where everyone hugs
Instead of tugs,
Where everyone giggles
And rolls on the rug,
Where everyone kisses,
And everyone grins,
And everyone cuddles,
And everyone wins.

By Shel Silverstien