Mark James Hetzel

Mark Hetzel, 77, of Hastings, MN died May 22, 2025 at home surrounded by his family, after a short illness.

Mark was born May 7, 1948, in Milwaukee, WI to Norman and Evelyn Hetzel. He grew up in West Allis, WI, where he graduated from Nathan Hale High School. Mark attended UW-River Falls and then transferred to UW-Stout, where he got a degree in Industrial Arts. He later returned to UW-River Falls and earned his Masters in Education. Mark taught in Dodgeville, WI for 14 years. He later moved to Hastings, MN, where he taught until his retirement in 2002. Mark married his wife, Joanne, in June 1969 and later welcomed two daughters.

Mark is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Joanne; along with his children: Hanne (Jason) Reiger of Machesney Park, IL and Heather Arneson of Hastings, MN. Mark’s heart belonged to his grandchildren: Brooke, Brandyn, Jenna and Wyatt. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Charlie, Suzanne, Peter, Christopher, and Katelynn; along with sisters-in-law, Hannelore of CA and Brenda of WI.

Mark was welcomed into heaven by his parents; his mother-in-law, Happy LeMoine; brothers-in-law, Raymond and Ted; and the one he was most excited to see, his beloved dog.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 11AM with a visitation from 10 AM -11 AM at Resurrection United Methodist Church 615 15th Street West, Hastings. Mark was a jeans and t-shirt kind of guy. The event will be comfortable and casual to promote sharing of his memories and laughs, just as he would want it. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Hetzel family, to be used for a scholarship for a graduating student next year.