Mark James Witucki

Mark James Witucki, a man defined by his passion for the outdoors and his determination to follow his own path, died peacefully in Taos, New Mexico, on October 26, 2025, at the age of 75 surrounded by his family. Mark was an exceptional human being who loved his daughter, wife, and family with every fiber of his being.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of 37 years; Tymotha Thurston-Witucki, daughter; Taylor Callaway, sister; Maureen Witucki, nephews; Matthew and Andrew Shiffler, as well as many friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lois and Ralph Witucki.

Mark was born on September 16, 1950, in South Bend, Indiana, to Lois Witucki (Robinson) and Ralph Witucki. He spent his formative years in Muskegon, Michigan, where he first developed his love of exploration and the outdoors. A lifelong learner, Mark earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame and the University of Michigan.

Yet, Mark's true calling was to work with his hands. He made the bold decision to become a carpenter, a vocation for which he initially had no formal training. With the perseverance that characterized his life, Mark famously showed up at the local union office every single day until they finally agreed to put him to work. He learned his trade from the master journeyman "The Greek," a period that shaped his skills and commitment to quality craftsmanship.

His independent spirit eventually led him to Taos, New Mexico, driven by his love for skiing and the rugged mountain lifestyle. In Taos, he fully embraced the mountain community, spending his time mountain biking, camping, boating, and fishing. Taos brought Mark and Tymotha together and is where they were married in 1990 and began their family. Tymotha, Taylor, and Mark enjoyed many outdoor adventures together. Tymotha recalls the first time she saw him ski and describes it as watching a ballet on the slopes.

Mark pursued a career as a carpenter and was the construction foreman for many of the top contractors in Taos from the early 70s to the early 2000s. Mark leaves behind a lasting, tangible legacy in the Taos landscape: he built the Orilla Verde day use shelters and many notable and iconic construction projects, which are now a valued and integrated part of the area's recreational and residential life.

Mark's life was a testament to following your heart, working hard, and leaving the world a little better than you found it.

A celebration of life will be held in April 2026 at their home in Taos, NM. For more information, please contact Tymotha at tymothathurston@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Mark’s memory to New Mexico Cancer Center, SkiDUCK, or Stray Hearts Animal Shelter.

The family of Mark James Witucki has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019