Mark Richard Valdez Sr.

Mark Richard Valdez Sr. RACINE - Above everything, Mark loved his family. His entire world revolved around the love of his life, Carla, his children Aimy and Mark Jr., his bonus daughter, Susan, his son-in-law, Boone and his grandchildren, Hyacinth, Bohdan, Aidan and Avery. The pride he felt in them was obvious and he made sure, daily, that they all knew it. Mark was dependable, honest, loyal, and hardworking. He was a true creature of habit... Whether it was grilling his brats every weekend, picking up lengua tacos from Taqueria Nuevo Vallarta (bringing home enchiladas for Carla), late night Velveeta shells and cheese, and washing towels every Saturday, without fail. Mark was thoughtful to an extent that even every day tasks were filled with love for his family. He relished time at home with his high school sweetheart and love of 39 years, watching favorite shows or walking their dogs, together. He loved to surprise her with gifts, new gadgets, and perfume, Carla was never out of his thoughts. He loved to cook and his tacos are a thing of legend, even outside of his immediate family. His love affair with his grill is second only to his love affair with Carla, he was a master at grilled meats, and his family reaped the benefits. Mark was an avid collector of guns, knives, hats, sunglasses, shoes, coats, electronic gadgets, tactical flashlights, and sports memorabilia... A very, very, avid collector. Mark's children were his pride and joy. They hung the moon, in his world. He worked long hours during the week, but weekends were for his family. Aimy Maye was his "Pal", his constant companion at his city league basketball games... And he knew the magic of a brand new box of Crayola crayons or a vending machine candy bar, waiting in his lunchbox, for both kids to find. Mark Jr. was "Bud"... His best bud. Mark coached Jr's basketball and baseball teams, he took Jr and his best friend, Pete, to the arcade every single weekend. Jr. was his confidante and nobody related to Mark, like Jr. did. Susan came into the family unexpectedly, because of Mark and Carla's generous and loving hearts. Mark always made sure that Susan knew she was part of the family, as family is defined by who loves you, unconditionally. Through the ownership of Cyber-Grounds Cafe, Mark made a lasting impression on so many people in the community. The regular customers were more than customers, they became friends and extended family. Mark worked 24 dedicated years at Tri-Clover in Pleasant Prairie and most recently was employed at ATI Ladish in Cudahy. Anyone that has worked with Mark knows that his work ethic is second to none. If he was given a task, perfection was the only result he accepted from himself. To remember Mark, look at his wife, his children and his grandchildren. They are his legacy. They were his world. To celebrate his life, watch a Jeff Gordon race, the Three Stooges or an old western. Eat a great authentic Mexican meal. Quote The Big Lebowski or National Lampoon Vacation movies. Put on some camo and drive a jeep. Drink a cold Miller High Life. He was a helluva guy and the ultimate measure of a husband, father and friend. He will be missed by many, many people. Mark passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2015. He was born to Richard and Marilyn (Dostalik) Valdez on New Year’s Eve, 1955. Mark was preceded in death by his parents Richard Valdez, Marilyn Sorenson and Father in Law, Chuck Helman. Mark is survived by his wife, Carla, his children Aimy, Mark Jr., and Susan, Grandchildren, Hyacinth, Bohdan, Aidan, and Avery. Mother in Law, Audrey Helman. Siblings, Monica, Mike, Monte, and Matt... As well as relative and friends too numerous to mention. A visitation will be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Thursday, April 16, 2015 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and stories about Mark. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Mark Richard Valdez Sr.

December 31, 1955 - April 11, 2015