Mark V. Strubbe

Rock Valley, IA: Mark V. Strubbe, age 73, of Rock Valley, Iowa, passed away after a long battle with health issues at Whispering Heights in Rock Valley.

   A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 27, at 2:00 PM at Porter Funeral Home in Rock Valley, with Jason Strubbe and Chris Van Beek officiating. The service will be livestreamed on Mark’s obituary page at https://www.porterfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/mark-strubbe. A time of visiting with the family and refreshments will follow the service. A private family inurnment will take place prior to the service at Valley View Cemetery.

   Mark Vincent Strubbe was born on July 22, 1952, in Hudson, South Dakota, to Vincent and Betty Strubbe. He was raised on a family farm near Rock Valley, Iowa, alongside his three siblings and attended Rock Valley High School. Following his education, Mark served his country with honor in the United States Army for 20 years.

   Mark was united in marriage to Susan King. Together they were blessed with three children: Shawn (Jenny) Strubbe, Tonia (Jeremy) Van’t Hul, and Jason (Amy) Strubbe. During Mark’s military career, the family spent many years traveling and creating lasting memories. After his retirement from the Army, Mark and Sue returned to Rock Valley to be closer to family.

   In April 2014, Mark’s health declined, and he became a resident of Whispering Heights. Despite his challenges, he remained known for his vivid storytelling, warm personality, and great sense of humor. He had a natural ability to bring joy to those around him and was often the life of the party.

   Mark cherished time with his family, especially playing catch with his grandchildren, enjoying popcorn while watching his favorite shows, and never being without his Diet Pepsi. He also loved fishing, cutting wood, and spending time outdoors whenever he was able.

   Grateful for having shared his life are his three children: Shawn (Jenny) Strubbe; Tonia (Jeremy) Van’t Hul; and Jason (Amy) Strubbe; eight grandchildren: Danielle (Marcus) Van Kekerix, Dominique (Austin) Blankespoor, Madison (Trai) Cleveringa, Zachary (Aubri) Strubbe, JT Van’t Hul, Tia Van’t Hul, Trista Van’t Hul, and Reality Strubbe; five great-grandchildren; and sister, Billie (Ray) Berner.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Betty Strubbe; brother, Jim Strubbe; sister, Vicki Olson; brother-in-law, Harvey Olson; and nephew, Mike Berner.