Mark Anthony Veneziano, 75, of Shell Lake, Wisconsin, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Born on November 1, 1949, in Hibbing, Minnesota, he was the son of Anthony J. and Lana J. (Bianconi) Veneziano.

Mark spent most of his life in Wisconsin, where his impact was felt by many, especially through his career as a teacher. For decades, he inspired generations of students, most notably as a 6th-grade math and science teacher. Mark's dedication to his students went beyond the classroom—he created unforgettable experiences like hosting annual Spam tasting parties, teaching rocketry during summer school, wearing silly costumes for the yearbook photograph, and developing a beloved lake project that reflected his deep appreciation for nature.

Outside of teaching, Mark's love of music was a defining part of his life. He played the saxophone at open-mic nights across Minnesota and Wisconsin, spreading joy wherever he went. When not playing sax, he could often be found playing harmonica, singing, or whistling along to his favorite tunes. Summer days often saw him on the golf course, enjoying the game and the camaraderie of close friends. Mark was also a member of the Eau Claire curling club, enjoyed time on the lake boating and fishing, and playing a mean game of cribbage with family and friends.

A self-taught chef, Mark's culinary skills were legendary among family and friends. Despite lacking formal training, his meals were nothing short of world-class. Yet, Mark’s greatest accomplishment was the love he shared with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, cherished as the best dad and grandfather anyone could wish for.

Mark is survived by his loving wife, Danya Case; daughters Sherry (Aaron) Miller and Amanda (Nate) Williams Veneziano; stepdaughters Jessica (Jon) Secor and Robin (John) Berlin; stepson David (Dana) Case; grandchildren Lauren (Amy) Miller, Alex (Trish) Miller, and Andrew Miller; Luca and Preston Veneziano; Zachary and William Secor; Fischer and Sterling Berlin; Raya and Ruth Case; great-grandchildren Rory and Delaney Miller; Charlie and Maxwell Miller; sister Paula (Pete) Taylor, Niece Ali (Andrew) Hersh, nephew Ross (Cristina)Taylor; and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Mark's life will be held on Saturday, April 5, from 4:00 to 9:00 PM at the Spooner Golf Club in Spooner, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to come together to share stories, enjoy live music, and celebrate a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mark’s memory may be made to the Beaver Creek Reserve. https://www.beavercreekreserve.org/support/donations/

Last Update: Mar 13, 2025 12:41 pm CDT