Mark was born on June 11, 1953, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Lyle and Osa Butikofer. He attended, then graduated from West High School of Waterloo, IA in 1971. He met, then married the love of his life Patricia Jeffrey in October of 1976. His travels in life took him and his family to Bradenton, FL in 1986 and Springfield, MO in 2001. Throughout his career and across the nation, as a Park Ranger in Iowa, to custodial services for the city of Bradenton, FL, and Drury University of Springfield, MO, where he would ultimately retire in 2015. He was a loyal and devoted husband, father, and sports fan; especially when it came to his beloved Hawkeyes. He also held a deep passion for the outdoors, was an avid landscaper, and he never met a hiking trail he could not conquer.

Mark leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory always. He is survived by his children: Malasia (Richard) Ray of Indianola, IA; Chad Sohn (Melissa Schamerhorn-Davis) of Des Moines, IA; Ursula Duncan (Paul Hennessey) of Bradenton FL; Olivia Butikofer (Andrew Anson) of Iowa City, IA. Grandchildren: Alysa (Collin) Moyle of Pleasantville, IA; Ciarra Butikofer of Denver, CO; Avery Anson of Madison WI; Amber Ray of Indianola, IA; Derrick Klinghammer; Savanna Sohn; Shelbie Sohn, of Council Bluffs, IA; Autumn Hennessey; Gillian Hennessey, of Bradenton, Fl; 2 great grandsons: Miles and Baby Moyle; 2 great granddaughters: Melody Purcell; and Winter Osorio – Hennessey. His brothers: L. Lynn (Lisa) Butikofer of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma; Steven (Kristi) Butikofer; Kevin (Tammy) Butikofer of Waterloo, IA; and his sister, Linda Mummelthie, of Evansdale, IA. He is also lovingly remembered by his aunts: Geraldine Frieden of Elgin, IA; Marlene Butikofer of Waterloo, IA; and Bonnie Neubauer of Cresco, IA; many nieces, nephews, and cousins, whose lives were brightened by his knowledge, perseverance, charm, and compassionate care.

Mark treasured his family and still mornings listening to his favorite musical artists. His love for nature, history, topography, and the mechanics of life was awe inspiring. Having a playful imagination, he never shied away from spinning tales of fantasy and folklore, making anything outdoors a much more adventurous, fun, and interesting place. He was a reflection of the genuine connections he brought to those around him. He will be remembered as a humble, intellectual loving man, with a pragmatic sense of humor, quick wit, a hearty dose of whimsy, and a calming presence that was easy to enjoy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lyle E Butikofer, mother, Osa J Butikofer; wife, Patricia K Butikofer, grandson Johnathan Ray, SIL Robert Duncan, his paternal and maternal grandparents, and BIL Steven Mummelthie.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the future with Burial at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Waterloo, IA.