Mark Edward "Sparky" Hayden

VERONA - Mark Edward “Sparky” Hayden, age 78, passed away at home with his wife by his side, after living with Parkinson's for six years and a brief battle with cancer.

Mark graduated from Madison West High School in 1966. He went on to get his degree in accounting at MATC. He worked at Kroeger, Madison-Kipp, and the Village Bar, where he drank as many beers as he poured.

He began his life-long career with the US Postal Service. He loved his job and was a well-known mailman. All his customers loved seeing him every day with a smile and some smart remarks. "Here's looking up your old address." After retirement he kept Resurrection Cemetery lawns looking beautiful.

Mark married the love of his life, Bonnie, and they shared 42 fun-filled years together; a tender-hearted man who spoiled his wife. He took great pride and devoted his life to his three sons, always the biggest supporter at their soccer and hockey games. He made long-lasting friendships with many parents on the sidelines.

When the kids were young, they enjoyed traveling to the Tetons, Yellowstone, Colorado and many trips to the cabin. Once empty nesters, their travels took them to England, Scotland, Iceland, Switzerland and numerous trips to Florida.

Mark played slow-pitch softball and enjoyed many late nights in a bowling league with his brothers-in-law. He also tagged along on many hunting trips where he was never allowed to take a gun. He traded in his softball gloves for boxing gloves when he joined Rock Steady Boxing, a Parkinson’s community that provided support and friendship.

His large hands were tender as he held and hugged his adored grandchildren, Ryder, Aurelia, Margot and Cassidy; and grand-dog, Onion.

An avid Badgers, Packers and Brewers fan, the tv took a lot of verbal abuse. Mark was granted his last wish to see a Brewers win in a suite surrounded by his family. It was a perfect day! He was so happy to see his name on the scoreboard, receive a signed ball and be able to sing oldies all the way home.

Survivors include his wife, Bonnie; sons, Patrick, Michael (Therese) and Mark (Kate) Hayden; four grandchildren; sisters, Mary (Tom) Quamme and Judy Hayden; brother and sister-in-laws; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Jane; and sister, Jane Hayden.

A memorial service will be held at Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.
 

Mark was a man of few words, but his wit, dry sense of humor and just his being made him so loved. He truly was a gift.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the family. Donations will be made in Mark’s memory to local organizations. Please make checks payable to Bonnie Hayden. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

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