Mark Allen Kaufert

In everything he did, Mark Kaufert had others in the forefront of his mind. Although life was not always easy for him, Mark faced each and every day with a smile that could brighten even the darkest of days. A treasured son, beloved brother, and devoted father, Mark will be deeply missed by many.

The year 1961 was a year for celebration for the family of Gordon and Esther (Gildemeister) Kaufert since it was on May 9th that they welcomed the birth of their son, Mark Allen. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mark was the fifth of eight children in his family including his siblings Gary, Michael, Ruth, Gordon Jr., Kevin, Barbara, and Scott, although both Michael and Gary died at birth. He was raised on the northeast side of Milwaukee where he formed a close bond with his brother, Kevin. They loved telling jokes and riddles with one another, often going back and forth for several rounds. Mark’s personal time was often directed to reading and writing. Hunting and fishing were additional activities that Mark enjoyed with his family as often as time allowed.

Right from the start Mark was a fun-loving person who was always looking for ways he could help those around him. With giving to others as his motivation, Mark began working in the construction industry. If there was a job someone needed that he didn’t know how to do, he would find out how to do it and then teach himself the technique. Mark was a true handyman around the house who through the years became a jack of all trades. Whether it was hanging drywall or helping carpenters, Mark was the man for the job. When he had free time, he enjoyed playing cards and watching television. Mark also taught himself how to play the guitar.

When Mark was 23 years old, he was overjoyed to become a father. His son, Mark Jr. was the light of his life and through the years, their relationship was of great significance to Mark.

Life was not without challenges for Mark, but even when the days were dark he always had a smile on his face. He had a loving family who rallied around him, supporting him in whatever way they could. Mark and those who loved him were given a tough pill to swallow in May of 2010 when he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. He courageously battled against the disease with everything that was in him until the battle became too great, and he drew his last breath surrounded by his loving family.

With his kind and loving heart, Mark Kaufert brought so much light and life to the world around him. His memory will be forever cherished by those he leaves behind.

Mark Allen Kaufert died on December 31, 2010. Mark’s family includes his son, Mark A. Kaufert Jr.; father, Gordon Kaufert; siblings, Ruth, Gordy Jr., Kevin, Barbara and Scott; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Esther. Visit with Mark’s family and friends on Wednesday, January 5 at the Funeral Home from 11:30 a.m. until time of the Funeral Service at 12:30 p.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Arrangements provided by Suminski Family Funeral Homes, Suminski Weiss 1901 N. Farwell Ave 414-276-5122. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or photo or sign the online guestbook.