Dyersville, Iowa – Mark A. Tauke, a cherished resident of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the age of 64. He died at MercyOne Medical Center in Dyersville, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and community spirit.
Visitation will be held at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 3 to 7 p.m., with an additional visitation period on Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m. Funeral services will take place at St. Francis Xavier Basilica at 10:30 a.m., followed by burial in the church cemetery. The Rev. Chris Podhajsky will preside over the service.
Mark Tauke was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on May 27, 1960, to Marvin and Leona Tauke. After graduating from Beckman High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Iowa. He spent two decades in Arizona, where he owned 5-Star Dry Cleaners and Apache Creek Golf Club in Apache Junction. Mark returned to Dyersville in 2007 and worked with his brother Mike at Tauke Appraisal, later becoming a realtor with EXIT Realty.
An avid golfer, Mark was well-known at the Dyersville Golf & Country Club. He loved participating in the Tuesday night league, Thursday men’s night, and the Eastern Iowa golf championships. His 1966 Chrysler 300 convertible, affectionately named “Lucy,” was a familiar sight around town.
Mark’s vibrant personality and generous spirit made him a beloved figure in the community. He was known for his love of cooking, particularly his homemade salsa, soups, pies, and ice cream. His porch and patio were gathering spots for friends and family, where he entertained with cocktails, stories, and laughter.
Brooke Lueken shared on Facebook, “Uncle Mark lived life to the fullest. He always had the biggest wave, hug, or smile when one would come onto his porch/patio. We will forever treasure his larger-than-life personality.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his warmth and sense of humor. Connie Loesche Schuster expressed, “So sad. God only takes the good ones. He was so friendly and was not afraid to say what was on his mind. RIP.”
Mark’s impact on his friends and family was profound, and he was deeply loved by his nieces, nephews, and his loyal pets, Spooky, Cammie, and Buehlee. His passing is a significant loss to the Dyersville community, and he will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Mark is survived by his mother Leona Tauke and siblings Mike Tauke, Jack Tauke, Lynn Mawe, and Lisa Klostermann, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He was predeceased by his father Marvin Tauke and his brother Jeffry Tauke.
The community mourns the loss of a remarkable man who left an indelible mark on everyone he met.