Mark Steven Schaefer

Mark Steven Schaefer, age 68 of Le Sueur, passed away on January 1, 2026 at Cura of Le Sueur. Memorial Service will be held Monday, January 12th, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Zion United Church of Christ in Le Sueur. Visitation will be held Sunday, January 11th, 2026 from 4-7 P.M., with a Masonic Service at 7 P.M. at Zion United Church of Christ. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at church. Private Interment at a later date in St. Anne’s Cemetery in Le Sueur, MN.

Mark was born on June 5, 1957, in Arlington, Minnesota, to Herbert and Loretta (Wentzlaff) Schaefer and was raised in Henderson, a place he always considered home. Mark graduated from Henderson High School and later attended Inver Hills Community College, where he proudly took part in the football program.

In 1978, Mark married the love of his life, Debbie Reinhardt, at Zion United Church of Christ in Le Sueur, Minnesota. Together, they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and countless shared memories. They were overjoyed to welcome their son, Jake, on their third wedding anniversary, a moment that brought immeasurable happiness to their family. Mark cherished time spent hunting and fishing with Jake and was a devoted presence at his many sporting events. Their family grew even richer when Dana joined them as their daughter-in-law, quickly becoming a loved and valued part of the family. Soon after, he was blessed with four beautiful grandchildren. Mark found his true calling and greatest joy in being "Papa Mark", spending time and creating lasting memories with them and his whole family.

In his free time, Mark enjoyed bowling, playing horseshoes, and golfing. He was also involved in the Masonic Lodge and the Zuhrah Shrine. He devoted many weekends leading the Shrine car club’s mini Corvettes in local parades to benefit the Shriner’s Hospital for Children which was very important to him. He appreciated simple pleasures, good company, and time spent outdoors.

Mark will be remembered for his steady presence, kind heart, and the quiet way he showed his love for those around him. He cherished the love of his family and many friends.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie of Le Sueur, MN; son, Jake (Dana) Schaefer and their children, , Violet, Emmet and Lucille “Lucy” of Henderson, MN; siblings, Bob Schaefer of North St. Paul, MN, Sylvia Reinhardt of Le Sueur, MN, Gary Schaefer of Henderson, MN, Linda Messerli of Winthrop, MN, Wayne (Sydney) Schaefer of North St. Paul, MN, Jim (Missy) Schaefer of Le Sueur, MN, Mike (Karen) Schaefer of Delano, MN, and Carol (Derek) Flynn of Mankato, MN; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lisa and Brad Lamp. as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. Mark is preceded in death by his grandson, Brogan Schaefer; his parents, Herbert and Loretta; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Lou (Gerry) Kahlow, Don (Cathy) Schaefer, Mary Schaefer, Connie Reinhardt, Diane Schaefer, Sally Schaefer; and parents-in-law, Donald and Janice Reinhardt.