Mark J. Griesemer

Mark J. Griesemer, 74 of Bloomington, passed away on October 10, 2025, at his home.

Mark’s visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 5-7pm at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington. Services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11am at the funeral home with military honors conducted by the Bloomington/Normal American Legion Honor Guard. Following the services burial will be held at Dawson Cemetery, Ellsworth.

The family suggests memorials to be made to the AMVETS to support American Veterans.

Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Mark was born in Bloomington on January 7, 1951, the son of Raymond Griesemer and Dolores Henson. He married Cindy Lee on September 26, 1974, in Bloomington. She preceded him on April 19, 2008.

Mark is survived by his daughters: Sara (Michael Popowich) Griesemer, Slingerlands, NY; and Katy Griesemer, Bloomington. Also surviving is his grandson: Sidney Lee Popowich; brother: Scott (Becky) Griesemer of Moulton, AL; sister-in-law: Susan (Mike) Ferrier and brother-in-law: Bill (Karen) Lee along with several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded by his mother and father, as well as his father-in-law Darrel Lee and mother-in-law Beverly Lee.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, his biggest priority was that his family was taken care of. He was happiest when those closest to him were happy, especially his wife Cindy. He loved spending time outdoors, whether it was fishing or playing golf with his friends. He took great joy in teaching his daughters how to fish when they were young, and golf when they were older. He was proud to pass on that tradition to his grandson, Sidney, who caught his first fish with Papa by his side. In his final years, his days were brightened by the company of his granddogger, Sunny. They had a special bond that included treats and squirrels - referred to as "skirtles". He often referred to Sunny as "his dog". Sundays were for the Chicago Bears, summers were for the Chicago Cubs, and he cheered for both through every season.

Mark joined the US Navy after high school, proudly serving his country stationed aboard the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War. After he married Cindy, he began his long-term career in the Office Equipment Sales industry where he worked his way up to Sales Manager and Vice President of Paxton's Inc. Once retired, he enjoyed telling stories about his days as a salesman and it was clear to his family that he was not only excellent at his job, but passionate. He had an old-school mentality and treated his customers like family.

During his time at Paxton's, he was an active member of the Bloomington/Normal Jaycees. He enjoyed helping with community activities, especially the Jaycees Haunted House. When his daughters were old enough, he would take them and their friends to the Haunted House each year.

He will be remembered for his quick wit, generous heart, and bringing life to the table. Mark will be dearly missed by his family and friends, whose lives will forever feel the void of his absence.