Mark Allen Cretsinger, 61, of Coon Rapids, Iowa, passed away on February 12, 2024, in Guthrie Center, Iowa, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 13, 1962, in Carroll, Iowa, to Franklin and Ruth (Lewis) Cretsinger.
A Celebration of Life for Mark will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Raccoon River Social Club in Coon Rapids, Iowa. Please join us in celebrating the life of Mark and honoring his remarkable achievements and the joy he brought to those around him.
The Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Coon Rapids is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be left for the family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com
Mark spent his youth stomping the grounds of Tuttles Grove in rural Coon Rapids. Trapping, catching bait in Silver Creek, fishing in Brushy Creek and retreating to the tree house were definitely some of his favorites past times. One summer, many hours were spent building a raft on Brushy Creek, only to learn that green logs do not float, and more than four inches of water might be necessary to get to the Mississippi. Red wagon rides down the hill towards the pond were lots of fun.
Mark was a graduate of Coon Rapids High School where he was extremely passionate about wrestling and he excelled in that sport. Mark continued his education at West Mar College in LeMars, Iowa, and graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri with a degree in education.
Mark was a dedicated educator, having spent over 20 years as an elementary and middle school teacher in Iowa and Missouri. He also served as a high school wrestling coach in both states, leaving a lasting impact on his students and athletes. Teaching was not just a job for Mark, it was his life’s passion. Mark spent many summers teaching driver’s education, and in his spare time while in Missouri, he owned and operated a limousine service.
Mark loved to visit with people, often sparking new friendships with complete strangers. He was one to always offer a helping hand to those around him. He enjoyed hunting for arrow heads and rocks on the farm and would travel to hunt geodes. Competitive pool and card games with family and friends were always some of Mark’s favorite past times.
Mark was full of life, adventurous, spontaneous and determined. He had a heart of gold and cared deeply for others. He was known for his helpful and competitive nature as well as his love for sports, particularly football, being a loyal fan of the Chicago Bears. GO BEARS! He also followed wrestling closely, loyally supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes. Mark’s enthusiasm for sports was always a reflection of his vibrant personality.
Mark leaves behind a loving family, including his father, Franklin Cretsinger; his brother, Charles (Tara) Cretsinger; his sister, Linda (Kraig) Reis; his brother, Chris Cretsinger; nephews Nick Reis, Josh Reis, Kaleb Reis, Jake Cretsinger, Ben Cretsinger, Isaac Cretsinger, and Frankie Cretsinger; favorite niece Abby (Reis) Ruiz; and ten great nieces and nephews.
Mark was preceded in death by his mother Ruth Cretsinger and his grandparents.
