Mark was born in Chadron, Nebraska. His parents moved to the LaGrange community when he was 11 years old. He graduated from LaGrange High School in 1973 then attended Frontier School of the Bible and graduated in 1976.  He worked at several ranches before going into business with his father-in law. He then started his own construction business in 1993.

Mark married Christy Downare in 1974. They have 3 sons and 8 grandchildren. Mark was elected to the town council in 2000 and elected mayor in 2005.

“I have enjoyed serving in other areas of public service in the past as a volunteer Firefighter/EMT and on the board for LaGrange Bible Church, LaGrange Mini Fair and LaGrange War Memorial Building.”  “LaGrange is and will always be, HOME.”