Mark Ellis Schwader was born on October 2, 1954 to Ray and Eunice (Hauge) Schwader at Mitchell, SD. He was bapitized at Bellewiew Luther Church, Howard.
Mark attended country school near his home until 4th grade when he entered the Howard school system and graduated in 1972 as president of his senior class. Mark enjoyed participating in football and was the first wrestler to compete in the championship round at State in 1972.
Mark then won a scholarship to DSC in Madison and graduated with a BS in Business in 1976. While in college, Mark worked at Duffy’s Steakhouse in Winfred. which was owned by his parents. After college he worked as manager of the Revolution Steakhouse in Howard for a time.
Mark was united in marriage to Cindy Stangohr on February 1, 1976 at Beach United Methodist Church in Woward. Mark and Cindy were blessed with 4 childrn, Mike, Kevin, Tami and Darin.
In March of 1976, Mark moved his family to the family farm east of Howard. Mark and his children became the 4th & 5th generations to work and live on the farm. Mark joined his father Ray and grandfather Ferdinand in the farming operation. Mark also helped his grandfather with the Pioneer Seed business and took over the dealership when his grandfather retired. Mark was extremely supportive of 4-H and spent many summers getting livestock ready for the fair and was proud to raise and have his kids show his own livestock.
Mark enjoyed attending auctions not only for the bargains, but for the chance to visit with his neighbors and friends.
Mark was always proud to follow his children’s activities whether it was academic or sports related. His children were his pride and he always told them he loved them more.
Mark always looked forward to hunting season and the chance to share his love of the sport with his children. He truly cherished the memorise they made together.
Mark was interested in everything and everybody. His family and friends brought him his greatest joy. When a man has a heart this big we expect it to beat forever.
Extremely grateful for having shared his life are his wife Cindy, his sons Michael, Kevin, Darin and daughter Tami; his mother Eunice Schwader; grandmothers Violet Schwader and Mabel Hauge all of Howard; sisters Connie Schwader of Bloomington, MN; Christi (Greg) Protsch of Howard; and Cathy (David) Beisel of Fenton, MO; sister in law Cora Schwader Howard; in’laws Roy and Leona Stangohr; uncles Gene, Bob and Tom Hauge; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Mark was proceded in death by his father Ray, brother Dan, grandfathers Ferdinand Schwader and Ernest Hauge and Aunt Joyce Slama. May he rest in peace.