Mark Nelson

Mark A. Nelson, age 55, of Potosi, Wisconsin, formerly of Darlington, Wisconsin,

passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 21, 2025, due to injuries sustained in

a UTV accident.

Mark was born on September 4, 1970, the son of William Bartle and Judith Nelson. He

grew up in Platteville, Wisconsin, and graduated from Platteville High School in 1989.

Following high school, Mark proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where

he served for several years before being honorably discharged.

After returning home, Mark settled in Darlington, where he worked for many years as a

cheesemaker at Roelli Cheese Haus. He also dedicated himself to public service as a

proud member of the Darlington Fire Department for many years, serving his community

with commitment and heart.

He is survived by his wife, Tricia (Mergen) Nelson; his step-son, Alex Friederick of

Potosi, WI.; his sister, Jennifer (Tim) Bartle-Koch, and their son Aaron Koch of Slinger,

WI.; his godson, Bobby White; his best friend and “brother,” Kyle Brunkow, his in-laws

Tim and Terry Mergen; Tina Mergen; his brother in law, Tony Mergen, all of Platteville,

WI; and his countless friends and & family; in Darlington and Potosi.

He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal grandparents, Gerald and Betty

Satrum; his paternal grandparents, Harley and Betty Baker; his uncle, Bruce Baker; his

aunt Sandra Keast-Overby and cousins: Julie Keast-Overby and CJ Segner-Baker.

Mark was one of Alex’s biggest fans and a constant supporter of all his many sports

accomplishments, especially football. Fatboy was always the life of the party, enjoying a

PBR with some of the best, and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Mark

would help anyone, no matter the circumstance, a quality that shone through in every

aspect of his life—even when he ran for Darlington mayor. He deeply treasured his

many “bonus parents” in Linden and Darlington and wholeheartedly cherished the

memories of his fallen brothers, Jay Schwartz and Dennis Hall, who held a special place

in his heart.

Mark will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A burial with military honors will take place at 11am on February 21, 2026 at the Linden

Cemetery, Church St, Linden, WI. A Celebration of Life will follow from 1-4pm at

Legends Pub & Grill; Grill in Darlington, WI. All are welcome to both the burial and

celebration.

The Erickson Funeral Home of Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may

be expressed at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.