Mari Lynn Behnke

Mari L. Behnke, 60, of Eden, went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, September 26, 2017, at St. Agnes Hospital. She was born on August 27, 1957, in Waupun, the daughter of Michael and Marlene Mannigel Marks. She was a graduate of Waupun High School, Class of 1975. Mari earned her Associate Degree from U.W. Fond du Lac in 1977. She later graduated from U.W. River Falls with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science. After graduating, she was a horse show judge, trainer and riding instructor for 20 years. Mari was active in 4H as a member, horse leader, and an assistant music director. On February 3, 1996 she married her partner Scott P. Behnke in Waupun, at the Union Congregational Church. Mari was a postal clerk for Oakfield before becoming Postmaster for Van Dyne, Malone, Mt. Calvary and St. Cloud. She retired in April 2016. She attends Edgewood Church in Waupun, was a member of Lighthouse Fishing Club, Manitowoc Kennel Club, NAPUS (National Association of Postmasters of the United States). Mari loved working with “Produce With Purpose Farm”, was a master gardener and an avid walker for various causes. She is survived by her husband Scott Behnke of Fond du Lac; stepchildren: Matthew (Sarah) Behnke and their children Miles and Paul, Taryn M. Behnke of Fond du Lac; her loving mom Marlene and stepfather Dick Malter of Waupun; two brothers: Mick (Julie) Marks of Beaver Dam and their children (Mari’s Godchildren) Kevin and Kelly Marks and Aaron Marks of Minneapolis, MN; three step brothers and sisters: Becky (Jamie) Maly of Waupun, Kevin (Lucy) Malter of Fond du Lac, Patty (Jim) Franke of Horicon; sister in law and brother in law Sue and Bob Brockman of Verona; brother in law Stacy Behnke of Fond du Lac; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; her beloved dog, Tag. She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Marks, step brother, Nick Malter and sister in law, Angie Behnke. VISITATION: Friends may call on Monday, October 2, 2017, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 31 East Division Street, Fond du Lac, and from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 3, 2017, at Edgewood Community Church, 609 Thomas Street, Fond du Lac. FUNERAL: A celebration of Mari’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 3, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at Edgewood Community Church, 609 Thomas Street, Fond du Lac, with Pastor Jeremy Thompson officiating. A luncheon will follow the funeral service. She was an avid Packer, Nascar and Badger Fan. Mari was a people person with a vibrant personality and heart of gold. Her unselfish personality led her to donate her organs so others can live. She would be the first person to help her family and friends. She loved her Lord and prayed for those in need. She will be sadly missed by her family and many friends. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Mari’s name.

Mari Lynn Behnke

August 27, 1957 - September 26, 2017