Mark K. Decaire

Mark was born on his family farm in Clarksburg, on December 13th, 1924, son of the late John and Jesse (LaJoie) Decaire. He attended Champion High School, graduating with the class of 1941. Following graduation Mark worked as a contractor before entering the United States Army during the Korean War, where he received two purple hearts during his tour in Korea.

Following his military service, Mark returned home to Clarksburg, where he and his brother, Clifford, opened a contractor business together, which he formally operated until the age of 80, and continued to do work up to the age of 85.

Mark was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, and the Ishpeming VFW, where he helped make pasties for many years. He enjoyed playing horseshoes, cribbage, hunting, wood working, and making cedar wreaths, which he did every Christmas up until the age of 96. Mark was known for being a pillar in the church, making sure to always attend Mass every weekend. He was the rock of the family, and will fondly be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and strength.

Mark is survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 51 years- Kaarina (Lassila) Decaire, siblings- Margaret Pearce, Leo Decaire, Pauline Lenore, Rose Rosa, Marcella Marta, Clifford Decaire, Jean Symons, along with several nieces and nephews.

Mark’s family will greet relatives and friends at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming, on Thursday January 19th, 2023, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 2:00 pm with Fr. Christian Flagstadt celebrating.

Military Honors will be accorded by the UP Funeral Honors Team.

A luncheon will follow in the church hall, where there will be a time for sharing of memories. Interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery.

Mark’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans for the excellent care they gave to Mark.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti 425 Fisher St. Marquette, MI 49855, or a charity of your choice in memory of Mark.

Mark’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.