Mark Carleton Ferris

Mark Carleton Ferris of Hiles, was called home by his heavenly Father on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the age of 75. He was born May 17, 1950, in Watertown, South Dakota, the son of Robert J. and Doris L. (née Mayer) Ferris.

Mark lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, and love. A devoted husband, father, papa, coach, and friend, he was known as the hardest-working man many ever knew and the most loving Papa by his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.

Mark cherished his wife, Julia, sharing a lifetime filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. They were married for 53 wonderful years, raising their children, David and Carrie, of whom he was immensely proud. He was always encouraging them and taking pride in all they became. Together, Mark and Julia shared a bond defined by family, loyalty, and deep, enduring friendship.

Mark and Julia shared not only a life together but also a passion for their work. They ran several businesses side by side, most recently the Little Pine Motel & Hiles Trailhead Pub, working together each day with dedication and teamwork. A proud "pizza man" and longtime restaurant owner, Mark had a remarkable gift for bringing people together. He loved sharing good food, laughter, and friendship, and found his greatest peace living by his motto: "Life is Great North of 8."

Mark was deeply committed to his community. He served in numerous local associations that promoted tourism and supported the growth of Forest County. He was always eager to lend his time, energy, and leadership to causes that enriched the lives of others. His generosity and dedication left a lasting impact on countless friends, neighbors, and fellow business owners.

Beyond family and business, Mark's love for sports was a defining part of his life. He coached for over 40 years, inspiring countless young athletes with his knowledge, encouragement, and unwavering dedication. Whether on the court or the sidelines, he taught not only the skills of the game but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. His passion for sports and mentoring left a lasting legacy in his communities, where he was admired not just for his talent, but for the heart he brought to every team.

Mark will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, generosity, leadership, and the love he shared so freely-an enduring light in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Julia Ann Ferris (née Keller); his son, David (Karen) Ferris; his daughter, Carrie (Casey) Lauer; grandchildren Caleb, Cody, Crew, Keller, Aubrey, Claire, and Kolton; his brother, Rich Ferris, and niece Lori; his sister, Carolyn Bonifield, and niece Madelyn; cherished family and business partners, Tom and sister-in-law Laura Devine, nieces Jessica (Nick) Devine, Melissa (Rick) Brenner, and Sharon (Kit) Wobeter. Those he cherished as family; Steven and Angela Norman, their daughters Erica Norman, and Caroline (Donald) Hershaw; and close family friends, Abby and Ally Pease. Mark is further survived by many other family members and close friends who will forever treasure his kindness, humor, and warmth.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Doris Ferris, and his brother, James Ferris. Father-in-law and mother-law, Arthur and Beverly Keller.

A funeral service for Mark will be held on Thursday, March 5, at Wisconsin Dells United Presbyterian Church, 730 Cedar Street, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. The service will be officiated by Chaplain Sol Grosskopf of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, honoring the family's enduring support of the United States Air Force, where his son, David, proudly serves.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 7, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hiles Trailhead Pub, 9245 WI-32, Hiles, Wisconsin. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend, share memories, and honor the life he lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a memorial donation in Mark's honor to the Town of Hiles Fire Department: https://www.townofhiles.org/fire-department