MADISON - Richard A. “Rick” Marks, age 72, of Madison, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. He was born on Aug. 7, 1951, in Madison, Wis., the son of Alan and Lydia (Steele) Marks.

Rick graduated from LaFollette High School in the class of 1969 and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and Physical Geography from UW-Eau Claire. He married the love of his life, Debra Parkin Marks, on Aug. 19, 1978, in Brillion, Wisconsin. They met while working together at Phillips Department Store.

Rick worked as a Return Drug Specialist for Walgreens for over 35 years, retiring in 2017. He had a love for the outdoors, especially camping, searching for unique rocks, hiking and nature photography. He served as a Little League coach for his sons, as well as a Den Leader, a Scout Leader and a Troop Leader. Rick was a Geography Advisor to the Four Lakes Council of Boy Scouts.

Rick was also an avid golfer who loved to follow the local legends such as Steve Stricker, Andy North and Jerry Kelly. He was a huge fan of the Brewers, the Packers and Badgers athletics. He adored his canine companions, Kenzie and Gracie, and took them to the dog park twice daily. He also enjoyed discussing sports and music trivia, particularly music from the 60s and 70s.

Rick is survived by his wife, Debra; sons, Christopher Marks (Rosalind Greiert) and Alexander Marks (Renee Kirch); sister, Karen (Michael) Delott; golden retreivers, Kenzie and Gracie; two sisters-in-law, Danette (Terry) Eiting and Diane (fiancé, Paul Luebke) Parkin; and brothers-in-law, Dean Parkin and Darryl (Shirley) Parkin. He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Jane (Medric "Buck”) Parkin; father-in-law, Buck Parkin, father-in-law, Gene Behnke; sister-in-law, Sandy Parkin; and brother-in-law, Doug Parkin. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

A celebration of life is being planned; details will follow.

Memorials may be made in Rick’s name to the Dane County Humane Society, Underdog Pet Rescue of Wisconsin or any local humane shelter. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Richard Marks

August 07, 1951 - September 14, 2023

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