Mark Grzeskowiak

Mark Grzeskowiak passed away on August 25, 2023 in Orlando, FL, with members of his family by his side. Mark’s life was unexpectedly cut short by a heart attack and subsequent stroke, while on a business trip to Florida. He was 60 years old.

He and his wife of 30 years, Tammy Csolak Grzeskowiak, were busily planning a wonderful wedding for their daughter, Jordan, to Nick Jianas when his life tragically ended.   

Born on October 14, 1962 to Charlotte and Henry “Buddy” Grzeskowiak in St. Louis, MO, Mark was a loving husband, father and friend to many. A 1981 graduate of Jennings High School, Mark made many friends during his youth. He also had close, loving relationships with his five siblings and their families.

Those who didn’t know him well probably felt Mark was quiet and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings of being in the background. In reality, he was a strong, caring man with an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humor. Mark could adapt to any situation and easily join in any conversation, putting a room at ease with his dry wit and wry smile.

He will be remembered for all that he shared with his friends and family. That love extended to the young people he worked with as a a Mentor Coordinator with Presbyterian Children’s homes and services for 15 years. His sense of caring and love was evident with the hundreds of troubled youths he helped mentor in his job.

Mark was generous and loyal to all. Throughout his life, there were countless examples of how he helped people in need. He never hesitated to respond to calls for assistance and often followed up with those he provided aid to.

Mark loved life, too, especially driving a boat or a jet ski tooling across the waters of Table Rock Lake. He enjoyed seeing the country on vacations with his family or accompanying his wife on many business trips, where he would focus on experiencing the beauty and history of the land.

Every Fourth of July, Mark and his family put on a magnificent firework display for family, friends and neighbors on their cul de sac in Dardenne Prairie. His opening ceremony, featuring Mark outfitted with impressive headgear holding Roman candles, was something to behold.

At the same time, Mark found joy in taking care of his home and yard. He was meticulous and took great pride in making both beautiful.

As a father, Mark enjoyed raising his twin daughters, Jordan and Jessie. He was a constant presence in their lives, watching Jordan compete in softball and other sports, and helping Jessie amass an impressive wildlife collection. This complemented three Weiner dogs, birds, fish, snakes and a gecko, who were constants in their bustling home life.

In addition to his father, Henry “Buddy” Grzeskowiak, wife Tammy, and daughters Jordan and Jessica of Dardenne Prairie, MO, Mark is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Dale and Stacy Grzeskowiak, Robert Grzeskowiak of St. Charles, MO; Dianne Rion of St. Peters, MO; Glenn and Kim Grzeskowiak of St. Charles, MO; Kathleen and Don Conley of Bethalto, IL and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Mark in death were his mother, Charlotte Grzeskowiak, and niece Adrianna Conley.   

The Grzeskowiak family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and medical staff at Advent Medical Center in Orlando for their wonderful care and efforts during Mark’s 17-day stay.

Memorials may be made to Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services at https://giving.pchas.org