Mark Alan Kongshaug of Hudson, WI formerly of Baldwin, WI passed away unexpectedly on December 7, 2024 at the age of 64.
Mark was born September 21, 1960 in Hudson, WI to Alfred and Carol Kongshaug. He was baptized at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. In 1962 he became a brother to Mike and Missy. The family moved to Baldwin in 1964 due to his dad’s job reassignment to the Baldwin Chicago & Northwestern Railway district sector.
Mark was confirmed at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Hammond, WI.
Mark attended Baldwin-Woodville Schools and graduated in 1979. Due to a need for EMT’s with Baldwin EMS, he entered EMT training in 1979 at 18 years old. He became the youngest EMT in the State of Wisconsin, while still a senior in High School. His favorite studies in school sere biology and chemistry. He was also an accomplished trumpeter in our Marching Blackhawks Band, helping the band win several awards including the trip to Ottawa, Canada for the International Music Festival.
He enjoyed many family vacations out west, Texas, and Canada. What an experience it was.
After High School, Mark attended U of W River Falls graduating with a B.S. Degree in Education. In his quest for knowledge, he also attended the U of W Eau Claire graduating with a B.S. Degree in Nursing, all while being an active EMT with Baldwin EMS.
After College he was hired at the Baldwin Hospital and Baldwin Care Center working as a nurse for several years. He became a Paramedic and was instrumental in helping Baldwin EMS transform into an Advanced Life Support Paramedic Service. He was such a good mentor to so many. He was able to recruit many people to become EMT’s, even his brother Mike. Mark served as EMS Chief for years. He was the epitome of community, commitment, and dedication. Mark was a friend to many of his fellow EMT’s and was respected for his leadership.
Growing up, his family had some cats, but Mark really loved Speck, our Border Collie. Later in his life he really liked birds, especially Starlings. He named them “Ling”. He had two of them over the years. He liked trains, airplanes, and some traveling. His Cousin Scott and Mark enjoyed a three-week trip to Europe. It was quite memorable.
Mark could be described by anyone who knew him as quirky, unique, humorous, clever, intelligent, caring, cultured, and influential.
He was a wonderful caregiver to his Mom and Dad. Taking them to appointments, and caring for their needs.
Survived by his brother Mike (Jeanne Sobottka) of River Falls, WI: sister Missy (Larry) Larson and nephews Jake and Kurt of Austin, TX: nephew Justin (Ashley) Kongshaug and their children Sophia and Parker of Birchwood, WI and several cousins and friends.
Preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; several aunts and uncles; and an infant brother
In lieu of flowers, memorials will be used at the discretion of the family.
Celebration of Life Tuesday, January 7 from 2 P.M. to 5 P.m. at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home in Baldwin, WI. Private burial will take place at a later time.
