Mark Warren Coder passed away in his home following a courageous battle with cancer  on Thursday, October 20, just three days after his 60th birthday.

Mark was born on October 17, 1962, in Muscatine, IA. He attended Kirkwood Community College before joining the Army. He then studied drafting at Hamilton Technical College and was employed at HWH Corporation. He later worked as an engineering and project supervisor for Merkle International in Galena, Illinois, which gave him opportunities to travel around the globe. He always had good stories to tell about his experiences in China, India, and Russia, among others.

Mark enjoyed gardening and spending time with family, especially hunting and fishing at the family farm. He had a knack for fixing things and was always on the lookout for ways to make devices work better. He enjoyed leaving surprise presents for others; it made him smile to think of their reaction when they’d find a ham in the freezer or note under a pillow after he’d gone. HE was our greatest gift, and we hope he’s smiling as we think about him now.

Mark was a much-loved husband, parent, son, and brother. He is survived by his wife, Julie (Ortgies) Coder of Asbury, IA; stepson, Claudio Ordonez, of Asbury, IA; parents, James and Caroline (Gerdts) Coder of Letts, IA; sister, Pam Coder, of Davenport, IA; and brother, Lee Coder of Letts, IA, as well as several nieces and nephews, whom he adored.

The family will gather for a private graveside service at Oak Grove Cemetery, located in Letts, Iowa.

We wish to send a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara L. and Morgan; the UW Cancer center, including Dr. Floberg, Dr. Liu, and Nurse Katie; and staff at the Wendt Cancer Center.

Memorials may be sent to the Hospice of Dubuque, the Dubuque Food Pantry, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mark’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.