Mark L. Welk, age 60 of Amery, Wisconsin passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2013 at the Willow Ridge Health Care Center in Amery. He was born on February 16, 1953 in Lewis, Wisconsin to Earl and Irene (Mason) Welk. He grew up in Star Prairie, Wisconsin where he learned to trap and ice fish at an early age with his father. He was united in marriage to Sandra Cherry on October 14, 1977, and to this union one child was born. The couple made their home in Centuria, Wisconsin where they raised their son, Mark Jr. Mark loved to split wood for himself as well as for other people. It was while cutting wood that he sustained a severe injury that resulted in Mark becoming paralyzed. He has had burning sensations in his legs and suffered for years with this. Now he is running again and for this his family is so grateful. Besides splitting wood, Mark had a great love for the outdoors, especially trapping, hunting, fishing and just enjoying God's creation. The only thing he enjoyed more was taking his son Mark with him. He also spent time giving Sandra and Mark many tractor rides. Mark had a special bond with animals. They loved him and he had a way to communicate with them. Mark had been residing at Willow Ridge and we would like to thank the staff for the many years they have cared for, loved and supported Mark. He truly felt it was his home for many years. Mark had a twinkle in his eye and smile on his face that could brighten anyone's day. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Irene Welk. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra and son, Mark Jr., as well as other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at the Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery. A visitation will be held the hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Balsam Lake Cemetery.