Mark Anderson

Mark Anderson, 62, of Atlantic, Iowa, died Sunday, December, 21, 2025, surrounded by family at Cass Health in Atlantic.

Born the first son of Ralph and Marlene (Reed) Anderson, Mark Allen made his appearance on July 25, 1963, in Atlantic. He grew up and attended school in Atlantic and his nickname was “Sparky” because of his great speed running track. Model trains and airplanes and puzzles were favorite pastimes and all built skills into his life that he carried with him; “get stuff to work” was his mindset, always. Some of the best times were camping trips at Lake Anita and growing up with lots of cousins. When his father died young, he stepped up in their family and was a caring figure to his little brother, Chad.

Mark married Shawn Renee Ewing on December 8, 1987 and they celebrated 20 years together before she passed away on June 30, 2008. He raised their teenagers on his own; giving it his best and always keeping a positive outlook on life. He taught the kids to “get stuff done!” and whenever they presented him with their success, he almost always praised them with a simple but heartfelt, “Cool!” Later, he was married to Gerrie Stout for a time and even after they parted ways, they stayed very close as friends, until the very end.

His mind and hands were seldom still, whether tinkering with the lawn mower or working on any Ford he could get ahold of, he was a dedicated problem solver. His hard working, diligent attitude took him where he wanted, from employment in a local grocery store to driving truck for Menard’s, as a mechanic at Rick’s Auto Clinic and even doing carpentry around town. He was a very handy person and liked small engine repairs. Mark was a craftsman from the work “Go!” and wood was a medium he really enjoyed. He greatly enjoyed hunting pheasant and loved fishing trips; travelling far away in his younger years, he was equally content with a ride over to Lake Anita, as he grew older. When he took time to sit, it for was watching his favorite Martin birds in nature or his favorite team play; “Go KC!!!”.

Mark could also eat with the best of them and a few favorites were banana nut muffins, anything rhubarb, black licorice and Panda Express! He enjoyed gardening his own food, especially tomatoes and onions.

It is supposed that Mark could be described as stubborn . . . but that trait helped him through many life challenges. His favorite song was Jelly Roll’s “I’m Not OK.” He was a fighter through the tough stuff and actually said Google helped! He was always ready with a hand and heart to help others.

Mark is survived by his children, Jennifer (Eli) Rayburn and Brandon Anderson; his brother, Chad (Jenny) Anderson and sons, Tanner (Payton), Spencer (Alyssa) and Cooper and daughter, Lia Lillard; sister-in-law, Tisha (Rick) Mendenhall and daughter, Kayla; Mark’s ex-wife and dear friend, Gerrie Anderson; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Those preceding him in death include his parents, Ralph and Marlene; his wife, Shawn Ewing Anderson; and cousin, Brian Rasmussen.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, December 29, 2025, at Roland Funeral Home.

There is no set visitation time.

Private family burial will take place at the Atlantic Cemetery.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Mark’s family and his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.