Mark P Keleske, 72, died peacefully at home on September 30, 2024 after a six month bout with cancer with his wife and daughter by his side. Mark was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on February 28, 1952 to the late Hank and Betty (Bazal) Keleske. Mark graduated from high school in 1970, and attended St Norbert College where he met a group of friends affectionately known as the "Slummers". They remained friends for the rest of his life.

Mark spent his adult years working in the building trades, but mostly cherished his free time. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, woodworking in his shop, estate sales, collected old railroad lanterns and was an audiophile, taking apart and restoring receivers, speakers and turntables. He was an avid reader and could offer an opinion on most topics and always recommend a good book.

Mark especially enjoyed his annual trips to fish halibut in Alaska. Mark had a real affinity for wood and the potential to turn it into a bench, table, spoons, ladles and other useful tools. He did beautiful work, and was proud of creating unique products. He met with his Slum friends at least annually, sometimes spring and fall, to spend time and enjoy a good laugh.

Mark is survived by his companion and wife of 25 years, Lea Warrington; daughter Nasiqua Lily Rice, grands: Colleen Rice and fiance Christopher Soriano; Joseph Rice and Roman Rice. Daughter in law Martina Thomas. Siblings Jody (Mike) Wahlig, MN; Sari (Ray) Micklewright, CO; Beth Keleske, IL and Jim (Heidi) Keleske, WI.

He is further survived by nieces and nephews Dan (Jessie) Wahlig, Joe Selvic and Andy (Margo) Keleske and their children; Charlotte Keleske, Liz Selvic and Elsbeth "Bunchie" Micklewright and her daughter. He also leaves behind good pals Bill "Fly" O'Meara, Peter Pivonka, Bob Fenn and Dennis Hayes.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, his best Uncle Roman of Alaska, brother in law Rick Selvic, son Joe Rice, good friends Scott Layman and John Nemick, and his loving dog, Ellie.

Per Mark's request there was no viewing or services. His ashes will be scattered in the two places that brought him the most peace.

Special thank you to Bellin Oncology, Dr DeVilla, Dean Weycker APNP Palliative Care and Dr. James, Unity Hospice with very special thanks to Nurse Bailey; and special gratitude to Nurse Rahbya and CMA Kelly who treated Mark and his family with the utmost kindness and compassion.