Mark K. Lea

Lake Mills - Dr. Mark Keith Lea passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025 after a long illness.

Mark was born in Escanaba, Michigan on May 1, 1951 to Keith and Evelyn (Markwardt) Lea. He spent his early childhood there and his family later settled in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Mark was a life-long learner, receiving his Bachelor's Degree from UW-Stevens Point, and two Masters Degrees and a PhD. from UW-Madison.

Following in his dad's footsteps, Mark spent his career in the library science field. His first role was Librarian for the junior and senior high schools in the Osseo-Fairchild school district. While there, he coached their cross-country, boys' junior high basketball, and track teams.

Later when he began pursuing his doctorate, he became Library Media and Technology Coordinator in the Fort Atkinson school district, eventually helping create and design the library media center for the district's new high school.

His last role before retirement was Director of Library Media and Technology for the Madison Metropolitan school district.

Mark was extremely active his entire life. He enjoyed running, biking, and rollerblading, alternating those with kayaking when weather permitted. His favorite vacations included biking in Peninsula State Park or hiking the paths at Newport State Park with the dog. Developing Parkinson's Disease was like some sort of cruel joke, robbing him of some of his greatest joys in life.

Mark will be greatly missed by his wife Mary (Mimi), his college sweetheart and partner of 53 years, daughter Megan (Alan) Fethiere and grandchildren Mia and Ian, son Mark (Brandy) and grandson Ethan, sister Marsha (Steve Morrison) and niece Meheret, and brother-in-law Dick (Ann) Lubinski and nephews Tristan (Cat) (great-nephew Cal), and Ross.

The Family wishes to thank the caregivers at The View at Johnson Creek memory care unit, and the many Rainbow Hospice staff under Nurse Amy, who worked tirelessly and compassionately caring for Mark on his final journey.

A celebration of Mark's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of memorials, please consider donating to a Humane Society of your choice. Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Watertown is serving the family. Online condolences may be left at www.HafemeisterFH.com.

"Everything is dust in the wind"

--Kansas.