Mark Robert Bothwell

Mark Robert Bothwell obituary, Council Bluffs, IA

Mark Robert Bothwell

Mark Bothwell Obituary

Visit the Hoy-Kilnoski Funeral Home & Crematory - Council Bluffs website to view the full obituary.

Mark Bothwell, age 47, passed away on August 6, 2025. He was born December 4, 1977, to John and Terri (Malone) Bothwell in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Mark grew up in the Boyer Valley area and graduated from Boyer Valley High School in 1997. That same year, in November, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his service, he was deployed to the Middle East with the 31st MEU. As a Corporal he served as a Section Chief in heavy artillery, a position traditionally reserved for higher ranking officers. For his service he received several Honors, including the Marine Corp Good Conduct medal and two Meritorious Unit Commendations. Mark was honored to be a veteran and carried that pride throughout his life.

Away from work and service, Mark had many passions. He enjoyed Wednesday nights on the Logan/Missouri Valley golf league, riding his motorcycle in poker runs, and making the trip to the Sturgis Rally. He loved deer hunting alongside his son, and nothing made him happier than camping weekends with his family at Willow Lake. Whether around the campfire, on a long ride, or just at home, Mark truly treasured the time he spent with his wife and children. His family was the center of his world.

Mark fought his greatest battle for 23 months and 6 days. While he passed away peacefully, he did not let go peacefully. Cancer took him kicking and screaming. He fought to the very last breath. Mark, you were the true definition of a strength and determination. Your battle is over Marine, lay down your weapon and rest. SEMPER FI. 

He was preceded in death by his father, John Bothwell, and grandfather, Robert Malone.

Mark is survived by his wife and best friend, Donna Bothwell; son, Robert Bothwell; daughter, Johanna Bothwell; mother, Terri (Robert) Ney; brother, Kent Bothwell; nephew, Markus Bothwell; niece, Kloye Bothwell; father-in-law, Jim McMahon; sisters-in-law, Laura (Steve) Roberts, Mary McMahon, and Kathleen (Kelley) Reinhardt; grandmother, Betty Malone; many nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends. He was also a proud godfather to Seth Christiansen and Wells Moler.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

Memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Hoy-Kilnoski Funeral Home. Following the service, there will be a final ride for Mark, to the Logan Community Center for lunch and fellowship. Graveside service will be Friday, August 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Logan Cemetery. The family will direct memorials.


Hoy-Kilnoski Funeral Home & Crematory - Council Bluffs

1221 North 16th Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51501-0143

Memories and Condolences
for Mark Bothwell

Tell your own story about Mark

Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.

Make a Donation
in Mark Bothwell's name

How to support Mark's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Mark Bothwell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more