On the afternoon of June 29, 2024, Mark Wade Lorenz passed away in South Carolina, where he had been living.
Mark was born Apr. 15, 1957 to Harold D. and Phyllys E. Lorenz. He spent his childhood growing up in Boulder with his three older sisters, graduating from Jefferson High School in 1975. He embarked on a short enlistment in the Navy before meeting the love of his life, Mona A. LaFond, in 1977. They were married a year later on June 2, 1978.
After living a short time in Boulder, Mark and Mone made their home in Helena, raising four children in the Helena Valley. During this time, Mark started his 30-plus-year career as a carpenter and joined the Local 153 Union where he was the president for several years. He had a passion for anything with an engine (not a motor) and wheels. When he wasn’t working, you’d find him tinkering in his shop or picking and organizing his salvage yard. His love of all things mechanical brought many to his home. His quick wit, friendly smile and greasy handshake turned many customers into lifelong friends.
Mark was the epitome of “jack of all trades.” He shared his knowledge with his children, who treasured every lesson. As a family, Mark took his wife and children on many adventures including camping, snowmobiling, dirt biking, hunting, fishing, road trips to Butte and Sheridan to spend time with family, and annual carpenters’ picnics.
Becoming Papa Mark was one of his greatest joys! He enjoyed the time that he got to spend with his grandchildren while sharing his passions, just as he did with his children. He left us far too soon, leaving an emptiness in our hearts. He will be greatly missed and remembered forever.
Mark was preceded in death by his wife, Mona A. Lorenz; his daughter, Tawnya D. Lorenz; and his parents, Harold & Phyllys Lorenz.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Lorenz (Kirschman); a daughter, Tiana (Kurt) McEachern; sons Mark (Terri) Lorenz and Wade (Brandie) Lorenz; sisters Glenda Ellis, Sandy Lorenz and Dale (Dave) Wilcox; grandchildren Jasmyn, Devyn, Joseph, Morgan, Aspyn, Kolter and Peyton; and too many family and friends to mention.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, at the Boulder City Hall.
Mark’s legacy instilled in us the “Golden Rule”: Do unto others as you would have done unto you. Matthew 7:12 “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…”
