Mark M. Willer

Mark M. Willer, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away on September 25, 2026, at the age of 77. He was born on June 6, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Mark will be remembered as a devoted father and grandpa, a natural joker, and a man who did not know a stranger. He moved through life with an easy warmth that drew people in, and he treasured the simple and lasting joys of time shared with family and friends. He loved spending time with his friends, loved eating really good food, and found deep pleasure in the moments that became family stories.

Among the memories held close is the tradition of driving Katie around the Plaza at Christmastime, telling her the family history as the lights glowed around them. It was a reflection of who Mark was: someone who carried stories, shared them generously, and made ordinary outings feel meaningful. His proudest accomplishments were his family and the BBQ smoker he built out of a metal barrel, a creation that spoke to both his ingenuity and his love of bringing people together.

Mark was an avid hunter and fisherman, and he poured his competitive spirit and skill into barbecue as well. He took part in BBQ tournaments, and at The American Royal BBQ he proudly won first place in chicken, an achievement that brought him great satisfaction and became a point of pride for those who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Kathryn Fitzpatrick, and his son-in-law, Brandon Fitzpatrick. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Benjamin Fitzpatrick, Kandice Fitzpatrick, and step grandson Dominik Fitzpatrick. He is also survived by Linda Willer; by his niece Ashley Mahnken and her husband, Drew; by his niece Crystal Spurgeon and her husband, Nathan; and by his twin brother, Paul Willer. Each of them carries forward memories of his humor, his stories, his hospitality, and the unmistakable presence he brought to every gathering.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Wendy Arnold, and his brother-in-law, Dan Arnold.

Mark’s life was marked by family pride, friendship, laughter, and the pleasures of good food, good company, and traditions lovingly passed down. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.