Mark Thomas Wicke

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Mark Thomas Wicke, 54 of Red Wing, MN., formerly of New Ulm. Mark passed away on August 26th, 2024, at his home.

Mark is survived by his sons Justin (Mandi) Green of Red Wing, Caleb Wicke, Alex Wicke of Red Wing; Carsen (Hollie Raphael) Wicke of Las Vegas, NV., his former wife, Jennifer Karlsrud (Jason Coon) and little buddy Jaxon Coon also of Red Wing, and grandson Lucas (Kate) Pelkey of Owatonna. Brothers, David (Lisa) Wicke of Summerville, SC., John (Jordan) Johnson of Burnsville, MN; sisters Jenny Johnson of New Ulm, MN., Kelli (Tom) Dank of Hillsboro, WI., step-Father Robert Johnson of New Ulm, MN., many cousins and many nieces, nephews, and two great-nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Melvin Wicke and Jean Johnson, and his uncles Edward and Arnie Schnitker.

Mark Thomas Wicke was born on May 5, 1970 to Melvin & Jean (Schnitker) Wicke in Manitowoc, Wis. Mark grew up in New Ulm, Minn. and was a 1989 graduate of New Ulm Senior High School. After High School, Mark joined the Army where he found a great love for Army tanks, which he loved to talk about. Mark was stationed in Germany with the 3rd Infantry Division where he was on the C34 and M1A1 Main Battle Tank. He was also in Northern Iraq, where he was awarded the Certificate of Appreciation for outstanding contributions in support of the Kurdish Humanitarian Relief effort during Operation Provide Comfort in 1991. He was also awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Hand Grenade-Expert and Piston 9MM-Expert during his time in the Army. Mark was stationed in Fort Bliss, TX. In 1992 when he was honorably discharged and returned to Minnesota to be with his son. After leaving the Army, Mark went on to work for Norwood and Red Wing Shoe Co. for many years. He also worked in the Bay City Mine and in North Dakota in the oil fields. Most recently he was a driver for Uber & Lyft.

Mark enjoyed trains, riding motorcycles, and being outdoors. What he loved most was being a Dad. Mark will be deeply missed by all his family and friends.

The family asks you to join them in a Celebration of Life for Mark on October 12, 2024 from 3pm-7pm at the American Legion in Red Wing. Mark will receive his Colors at 5pm with Special Honors.