Mark D. Friend

Mr. Mark D. Friend, age 72, passed away August 27, 2025 at his home in Chewelah, Wash. Mark was born October 4, 1952 in Pasco, Wash.   

After graduating from high school Mark entered into the United States Marine Corp. He would serve our country from 1972-1976. Semper Fi!

Mark was an avid long-distance runner. He competed in many road races throughout the area including several marathons. He found great peace when running. When he wasn’t working, you could find him pounding the pavement. Running was Mark’s passion. He coached the varsity cross-country team at Jenkins High School in the fall and the varsity track team in the spring for years.

Mark met the love of his life while living in an apartment in Addy, Wash. His beloved Nora lived in the same building. They would talk often. Over a period of time, they fell in love and were married in 1981. Soon after they were married, they moved to Chewelah, Wash., where they made their lifelong home. Mark would tell people that he married the girl next door. The couple would welcome their beautiful daughter, Shelby, into their family.

Mark was a hard worker. He worked at a local saw mill. Nora worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital. They attended St. Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church in Chewelah. Mark was a lector – proclaiming the word of God. The church community was a central part of his life.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Melford and Jo Jesok; daughter Shelby; brother Mike Jesok and sister Marsha Wood.  He is survived by his wife of 44 years Nora, brother Dan Jesok of Addy, Wash., sister-in-law, Mary Shovell and Robert of Colville, Wash., and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, at St. Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church in Chewelah, Wash. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery also in Chewelah, Wash.  Any former Cougar Cross-Country and/or Track member is encouraged to wear their “Cougar Wear” in honor of Mark.  All are invited to return to the church for a luncheon and a time to share stories after the interment.

Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with his care. Please visit the online memorial website and sign his guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com.