Mark Allen Fagerstrom went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 24, 2025. He was 58 years old.

Mark was born on June 7, 1966, to Robert and Mona Rae Fagerstrom in Warren, Minnesota. As a child, he was actively involved in McCrea 4-H, exhibiting numerous projects at the County Fair and earning several trips to the State Fair. He enjoyed refinishing furniture and was deeply engaged in church life, attending Sunday school, youth group, and Bluewater Bible Camp.

After graduating from Warren High School in 1984, Mark attended Alexandria Vocational Technical Institute and later the Association Free Lutheran Bible School, where he met Carla Osland. They were married on August 17, 1991, and settled in DeKalb, Illinois. Together, they had two sons, Micah and Josiah, who were the joy of Mark’s life. When Micah married Siri last year, Mark finally had the daughter he had always wanted. He treasured his growing family and loved spending time with them.

For 27 years, Mark served as an Assistant Grounds Gardener at Northern Illinois University, where he was known for his dedication and work ethic. His commitment was evident in every season, from clearing snow in the early mornings to tending the campus grounds during warmer months. Whether mowing lawns or trimming bushes, Mark approached each task with care and pride. Although he often joked that picking up sticks was his least favorite job, he never shied away from it. His efforts played a key role in keeping the campus both beautiful and safe.

Beyond his work, Mark was a loyal and thoughtful friend. He had a gift for listening and often offered quiet support and wise counsel during hard times. His kindness, sense of humor, and steady positivity made him a bright presence in the lives of many. He was a true jack-of-all-trades and generously used his talents to help friends and family with a wide range of home projects. He also enjoyed bowling and spending time with loved ones.

Most importantly, Mark was a man of deep faith. His faithful involvement in Grace Free Lutheran Church spanned many areas: maintenance, music, teaching Sunday school and confirmation, delivering children’s sermons, and serving as a trustee, deacon, and occasional preacher. He had a servant’s heart and was always willing to step in wherever there was a need. Mark’s leadership, compassion, and steadfast dedication to others will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his sons, Micah (Siri) and Josiah; his parents, Robert and Mona Rae; his brothers: Brian, Gary (Melanie), Jeffrey (Wendy), and Glen (Brandi); his cherished former in-laws David and Carmen Osland, and Craig and Angie Anderson; and his devoted friend, Joanne King. He is also remembered by many beloved nieces and nephews: Emily, Adam (Nicole), Mason, Daniel (Grace), Naomi, Blaise, Annika, Josie, Asher, Valerie (Ali), Aaron, Callie (Zach), Lawrence, Emma, Corban, Elia, Silas, and Aaron (Alyssa) Anderson and Adam Anderson. Great-nieces and nephews: Hallie, Brantley, Madelyn, Malachi, and Velaiah. Several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends also mourn his passing.

Visitation will be held on Friday May 30th at 9:30 AM followed by funeral service at 11:00 AM at Grace Free Lutheran Church, 1121 S First Street, DeKalb, IL.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.