Mark Edward Whaley

Mark E. Whaley, 58, of South Minneapolis, Minnesota passed away peacefully on February 19th, 2026 after facing a courageous battle with terminal illness and liver cancer while keeping his will to live with strength and positivity. In his final month, he was surrounded by love and comfort, with his daughters and grands by his side.

Mark was born on November 7th, 1967 to William O. Whaley and Marilyn L. Chase (Williams). He was the second of two children. Mark graduated from Roosevelt High School, Class of 1986.

A true jack of many trades, Mark worked as a skilled laborer with a strong passion for roofing and painting. Later in life, his craftsmanship evolved into artistry, where he discovered a love for contemporary fine art drawing. Many of his masterpieces live on and circulate throughout the Twin Cities today.

Mark loved fishing, the outdoors, and his days down by the river, hence the “river rat” parties. With family, he expressed his love through cooking, always finding joy in bringing comfort to others through his meals, knowing that food is a pathway to the heart.

True to the old proverb, he was a rolling stone gathering no moss, but he was a free spirit who followed his own path, making for many memories and stories. He was often described as eccentric, whimsical, and preposterous, so much so that many would say he had nine lives like a cat. In true Southsider fashion, Mark never met a problem he couldn’t outsmart.

Mark was preceded in death by his Mother and Father. He is survived by his beloved daughters Savanna and Angel, his three cherished grandchildren, Romeo, Pierre, and Alayla, who he adored, and will continue to carry his memory alive, along with the Worley family, his brother Tim, and nephew Timmy.

A traditional memorial service for Mark will be held on Thursday, April 9th at 1:00pm at 3131 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN, with visitation beginning at 12noon.

Please stay tuned for additional details regarding an old-school Celebration of Life to honor Mark’s final wish — kegger style!