Mark A. Birkholz, age 64, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, his Savior on Thursday, December 1, 2016, at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home in New London .
He was born on December 21, 1951, and is now reunited with his Mom and Dad in Heaven. Mark was loved by all his family for his kind soul and affectionate nature, always greeting us with his heart warming smile and easy- going personality. His family feels privileged to have shared their lives with him. Mark will also be remembered for his unique “charm”, that enabled him to get his nurses and caregivers to dote on him and serve him cookies/muffins during his medical appointments. Both Mrs. Dorothy Richter (Galilee School) and Mrs. Marietta Paap (St. Peter Lutheran School) were dedicated teachers, who created a caring atmosphere for Mark, showing him Christian compassion, and what was achievable for him. He loved them both, as he did Jane Schlieve, from Clarity Care, who has strived for the best care for Mark over the past several years, both medically and emotionally, while at Beacon House in New London. She took him ‘under her wing’, so to speak. We are so grateful for the blessing of these wonderful ladies in his life. Mark was a real “Trooper” through his numerous Dr. visits and treatments, as well as on his earthly journey, despite all obstacles. Mark loved his Green Bay Packers, and never missed watching a game on TV. The dogs we had on the farm brought him great joy and comfort. And we fondly recall the fun we had sledding down our back hill together, in the winter. Mark also enjoyed listening to music on his radio, which was a relaxing ‘down time’ for him.
Mark is survived by a brother, Rick (Sandy) Birkholz of Jacksonville, FL and a sister, Ellen (Jon) Wendt of Sequim, WA.; three nephews, and a niece, whom he adored: Brian Birkholz, Chris and Andrew Wendt, and Rachel Morris; along with five great-nieces, and one great-nephew, numerous cousins, aunts and uncles. Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Armin and Dolores Birkholz.
A memorial service for Mark will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, December 5, 2016 at St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church in Weyauwega, with Rev. Newlin Schafer and Rev. Dennis Lemke officiating. Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Weyauwega. A gathering of family and friends will take place directly at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to St. Peter Lutheran Church
A special thank you from the family to Jane and the staff at Beacon House in New London for all their kindness, assistance, and care for Mark, especially over the past four years and also to ThedaCare Hospice for their loving care and kindness in his final hours.