Mark A. Witczak, age 61, a Manitowoc resident, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Aurora Medical Center, Two Rivers.
He was born on September 27, 1962 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, son of Sonja (Maruga) Witczak and the late Richard “Dick” Witczak. Mark attended Lincoln High School, graduating with the class of 1980. At Lincoln, he was first-team all-conference in football and second team in baseball. Following high school, he went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education at University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. Mark was an assistant coach for the Lincoln football team from 1985 to 1992. During that time, the Ships won three state championships, set a national record winning streak of 48 games, and earned eight conference championships. He assisted with the Lincoln baseball team during that same time span, helping steer the team to three conference titles and one appearance in the WIAA State Tournament. From 1993 to 1995, Mark was the defensive coordinator for the Lakeland College football team. He coached in the Manitowoc Youth Baseball Association as well as Manitowoc Chief’s football. Mark was also a member of Kenny’s Athletic Club, Van’s Athletic Club, and was a Patti’s Athletic Club official. He also volunteered with the Special Olympics. Over the years, Mark has held various positions in construction sales. He was a real people person and enjoyed working with clients and others in his industry. Aside from sports, Mark enjoyed bike rides, longs walks, and going to the gym.
Mark is survived by his son: Jordan Witczak (fiancée Emily); significant other: Roslyn Faken; Mother: Sonja Witczak; and two brothers: Scott (Linda) Witczak and Paul Witczak. Nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his father: Dick Witczak; paternal grandparents: Harry and Lorraine (Keil) Witczak; maternal grandparents: Stephen and Theresa (Behnke) Maruga; three siblings: Michael, Steven, and Susan; as well as other relatives and friends.
Cremation has occurred at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory, Manitowoc, and a memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, 628 North Water Street, Manitowoc. Officiating at the service will be the Rev. Matt Colle. Following services, a luncheon will be held for family and friends at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, located on the southside property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Mark will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc, at a later date. The family will greet relatives and friends from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, Manitowoc.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family for donation to Mark’s favorite local sports clubs and organizations.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Aurora Medical Center, Two Rivers, for the care and compassion they have shown Mark and his family.
