Mark L. Gemmer

Mark Lawrence Gemmer passed away peacefully on January 13 surrounded by his family. Mark is survived by his wife JoAnne Gemmer, children Brian Gemmer of Aurora and Megan, (Brad) and grandson, Michael Thill of Sugar Grove. His stepfamily James, Adrianna, Chloe and Ada Crawford of Madison WI, Kevin, Holly, Autumn, Corey and Leo Crawford of Big Rock IL, Nick, Maria, Lucas, Alessandra and Ariella Crawford of St. Charles. His brother David and Rita Gemmer of Morris IL, along with 4 cherished nieces and their families.

Mark grew up in Sugar Grove and attended Kaneland High School where he made many lifelong friends. Known as an athlete, Mark excelled in track and field and enjoyed all sports. As an Eagle Scout himself, he supported the Boy Scouts and spent 12 years as a leader and trainer until his son also achieved Eagle Scout status.

Mark took his lifelong love of the outdoors and turned it into a career. He graduated from Kishwaukee College in 1977 with a degree in Horticulture. Over the years he worked for various landscaping companies as a Sales Manager and Sales Trainer. Over the years he won many awards for his landscape architectural designs including the properties at Del Webb and Northwestern.

Mark utilized his artistic abilities in many ways including wood carving and drawing. He specialized in unique walking sticks that he gave to friends. He used his talents on many DIY projects around his home in Kaneville. He designed and built a swing set in the back yard, a custom bar in the basement, a "Hen House" for entertaining as well as a beautiful pergola and patio. His yard and gardens were the envy of many. He spent productive hours maintaining the beauty and comfort of his home.

At a wedding in 2012, Mark was introduced to JoAnne. After many shared adventures, they married in 2017 at Bliss Creek, a place where they always had fun. Together they enjoyed camping and had many memorable trips from Shabbona Lake to Ocala Florida and many places in between. Mark had an infinity for Door County Wisconsin and had many happy memories of time spent with family. After retirement, in 2021 they built their dream home on a wooded lot in Crossville Tennessee. There they spent many enjoyable hours golfing, camping, hiking the waterfalls, and enjoying the beauty of nature.

He will be dearly missed by all.

Family will be receiving guests on Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 12:00 PM until the time of service at 2:00 PM at Dieterle Memorial Home.