Mark Andrew Rowland

Mark Andrew Rowland, affectionately known as

"M R," passed away on October 14, 2024, at a hospital in Newburg, Indiana. He was 76 years old and resided in Marion, Illinois.

Mark was born on June 27, 1948, in Canton, Illinois, and grew up in Augusta, Illinois. He spent his childhood enjoying life on the family farm, often creating adventures with his siblings. From wild games with eggs to driving tractors and tinkering with vehicles, Mark brought excitement and humor to daily farm life. He was particularly fond of the farm equipment, although his enthusiasm sometimes clashed with his father’s wishes.

Mark was an active member of his church from a young age, proudly attending Sunday School for 12 consecutive years. His love for sports, especially basketball, followed him throughout his life, starting with his participation in youth leagues.

Mark began his professional career in coal mining, where he worked for 19 years, eventually becoming a Pit Production Manager. Simultaneously, he pursued his passion for construction, building homes and working on various projects after high school, including at Western Illinois University. His hardworking nature meant long hours spent in both mining and construction, but he found fulfillment in creating lasting structures through his company, MR Builders.

The highlight of Mark’s life was his marriage to his beloved wife, Fran Rowland. Together, they raised their son, Trevor, and shared many joyful moments, including spending winters in Florida and watching their family grow.

Mark was an avid NASCAR fan, and he cherished attending and watching races. He was also an active member of the First Church of God in Marion, Illinois, where his faith remained an important part of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Fran Rowland; his daughter, Jodie Felter, and her husband, John; his son, Trevor Rowland; his grandchildren, Kaelin and Kara Rowland, and Collin and Corey Felter (Corey’s wife, Aimee); his siblings, Walter (Sheryl) Rowland and Marti Mills; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Walt Rowland, Mary (Fayhee) Askins and Edwin Askins, and his brothers, Roger and David Rowland.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the First Church of God in Marion, Illinois, with a private family visitation from 4:00-5:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024, with visitation at 9:00 a.m. and the funeral at 10:00 a.m., also at the First Church of God.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Ambleside School of Marion, a cause close to Mark’s heart. Donations can be made at Ambleside School of Marion - Ways to Give ( https://amblesidemarion.com/ways-to-give/ ).

Mark will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to his work, and his vibrant spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.