Mark Anthony Stecher, 55, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, is assisting the family.

Mark came into the world a few weeks late on October 2, 1970, with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck – just to make things interesting. The son of Joseph R. and Carol L. (Dougherty) Stecher. It was only the beginning for a man who would go on to develop a sharp wit and carry it with him throughout his 55 years.

As the youngest of six, Mark benefited from parents who had, by then softened considerably – giving their baby boy the freedom to explore and say things that might have earned an older sibling a smack. As he grew older that wit became one of his defining traits. Mark also had a generous spirit and a deep loyalty to the people he loved. He showed up when it mattered, often quietly, without needing recognition.

Mark had a lovable, teddy bear-like personality that his nieces and nephews found irresistible. The bond they shared began in childhood and remained strong throughout his life.

He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly and will miss him every day – his humor and his uncanny ability to get the last word in, even when no one realized there was still an argument going – a special note to his Euchre partners.