Obituary
Mark James Squier
Mark James Squier, of Holmen, WI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Gundersen Health System.
He was born in Sleepy Eye, MN, on December 15, 1949, to James “Chalky” Squier and Colleen Kehr, who passed away when he was just three years old. His father later married Joan Merfeld, who raised Mark and was the mother he knew throughout his life.
Mark graduated from Central High School in La Crosse, WI, in 1968 and was drafted into the United States Army shortly after graduation. He married Kaye Fernholz on December 23, 1988.
Mark served in the United States Army in Vietnam as an infantryman for six years with the First Infantry Division (Big Red One) and the 25th Infantry Division. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant (E-6). His military honors include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and Combat Infantryman Badge.
Following his military service, Mark returned home and worked various jobs before beginning his career with the United States Postal Service in La Crosse, WI. His interests included golfing, hunting, baseball, and the occasional cocktail. He also built custom golf clubs and participated in local golf leagues. During his younger years, he played baseball at Central High School, earning All-City honors as both a junior and senior. He also spent time attending his son Ben’s football and baseball games.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chalky and Colleen; his mother, Joan; his wife, Kaye; his brothers, Michael and James; his sister, Roberta; and his brothers-in-law, Mike Smith and Robert Onsrud.
He is survived by his son, Ben (Ashley); his granddaughters, Chloe and Josie; his brothers, Tom (Jessica) Squier and Steve (Renee) Squier; and his sisters, Paula Smith, Barb (Pete) Graf, Becky (Perry) Atterholt, Lisa (Mark) Weber, and Sandy (Lance) Allred. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and others.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The family extends thanks to the staff at Gundersen Health System, Mayo Clinic, and the Tomah VA Medical Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Veteran’s focused charity of your choice.
Ben i am so sorry for the loss of you’re dad. He sounds like he was an assume human. Remember all the good times you spent with him and the memories you have made.
Ben, Ashely, Chloe and Josie- we are so sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you all and sending you hugs. We are here for you. Love you all.
Mark Squier….there’s a real man who stood up for what he believed in….including his family..his friends and his country. It’s too bad we don’t have more men like him. God bless Mark and the entire Squier family..you have my sincere condolences.
Ben and Family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Lots of good baseball memories with your family.
Thinking of you.
Sue Bock
My brother Bob Formanek and I played alot of baseball with Mark. He was an outstanding baseball player and a all around good friend and teammate May he rest in peace.
My sympathies to your family. I had the privilege of caring for your dad. He was such an incredible man. I enjoyed listening to his stories, watching horror movies and cooking together. I will certainly miss him.
Jim and I are deeply saddened by losing such a deep faithful Veteran and friend. We kept in touch with each other and it breaks my heart I didn’t get to say our last goodbye. So many memories. From Memories from Lincoln to Central. Karen Stach,TJ Peterslie Mark and I were blessed with nights filled with Shenanigans and laughter. Rest in peace Mark🙏
Ed and I send our condolences to Mark’s family! Ed just lived down the block from Mark and they had a few fun times together. I knew Mark because his sister Roberta was a friend! May all the Squire family find peace in the coming days! Rest in Peace, Mark!
John and I knew Mark from the La Crosse PO he was always a good guy and we are sorry for your loss.
Condolences to all Marks loved ones
May Mark rest in peace. I knew Mark from the La Crosse Post Office and the softball team back in the ’80’s. Quite the ball player. Condolences to his family.
I am so sorry , Mark and I played ball together , as I did with Mike and Jim. such great times , having a few beers after. Mark and I made trips to the VA, and had many stories. Rest in peace your home with family
Ben…I was out of country March 17-April 4. I just saw your dad’s obituary. I am sorry to learn of his passing. Your Uncle Bob and I always enjoyed his company and your mom’s!
Love, “Aunt” Jackie