“Your rewards are in Heaven, not here on earth” – famous words of Mark Ebert.
Mark was born on February 28, 1961 in Helena, Montana to Katherine (Kay) and Bernard Ebert. He passed away on November 1st, 2023, peacefully in his home in the Helena Valley, from a heart attack.
He attended Bishop Gilmore, Rossiter, C R Anderson, and after graduating from Capital High School in 1979, he attended college in Bozeman. In 2003, the 1978 Capital High School football team was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He was just as proud today as he was that evening to share with others “their” accomplishment. He still has his football jersey to prove it. Everyone knew, win or lose, Mark was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys.
Mark worked diligently putting up hay and taking care of cattle at his ranch until the farm was sold. He drove for McHugh Dairy, Greenway Enterprises, Inc., and Ebert Ranch Trucking hauling dairy products, trailers, equipment, cattle, and logging in his 1972 Kenworth Semi. He eventually retired from the County Road and Bridge Department, but that didn’t stop him from truck driving where you recently would see him hauling gravel.
Mark was an extravert and did not know a stranger. If you hadn’t met him, he would make sure he met you. He was always the life of the party and shared his sense of humor, creating much laughter within the walls around him. He made sure everyone felt welcomed; that they mattered and were important.
Hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, shooting at gun ranges, cutting wood (always keeping the fire burning in the boiler at home, so he wouldn’t have to pay A DIME to NWE), dancing, and rodeos (a parade marshal and making sure the arena was kept watered during the rodeos at The Last Chance Stampede) are a few of the activities he enjoyed with his family and friends. When branding, burning ditches, haying season, fixing equipment (the quickest way to get things running again (if you knew, you knew), or after a long day of truck driving was completed, he would always head out for “a cold one”.
Mark was the first one to help family and friends, when asked, and if he saw you on the side of the road needing assistance, he was there for you too. In the late 1990’s, he would pull his fully decorated flatbed trailer for Ryan, Adam, and their classmates during the Vigilante Parades. Taking 1st place in their category was his emphasis and they followed through each year.
In January 1990, Mark joined Kim (Ewing) and her children: Ryan, Adam, and Amy (Trevor Peterson) Williams. Within a few years, they added to their family. In 1993, after a long and cold winter night of logging, Mark welcomed his first daughter, Anna Ebert, into the world. A quick 15 months and 11 days later, he welcomed his second daughter, Markell Ebert (his namesake), and during the summer of 1999, he welcomed his third daughter, Faith Ebert.
Mark’s love, pride, and joy were his three girls: Anna, Markell, and Faith. Mark consistently reminded his daughters to ‘get good grades in school, graduate from college, go to the top, and set yourself up for success while you’re young so you won’t have to work as hard in your later years, like I do.’ He also emphasized, ‘Always do what is right, always do what pleases God.’ He loved his three girls very much, and they always knew he was extremely proud of them. Mark was an inspiration. His words of wisdom, encouragement, and support will continue to guide us as we navigate this journey of life without his physical presence.
On November 3rd, with open arms, Mark held his first granddaughter, Linoy Shula. You could just see the sparkle in his eyes as he held her. Being a grandfather to his only granddaughter brought him immense joy. He cherished every moment spent with her. His stories, laughter, and unconditional love he shared with her created lasting memories that she will forever hold dear to her heart. Eternally, Mark will remain her ‘Poppi’.
On November 10th, Mark met his first granddog, Axyl. When Axyl came over for the first time, he peed on Marks boot, and his response was, “It’s okay he’s just excited”. Axyl’s presence always made his day brighter; eagerly saying “There’s the Ax! “My little buddy” Mark loved Axyl and they were the “best of buddies”. Axyl was his best friend, and he took him everywhere. Their tradition of going to Taco John’s every Tuesday for taco Tuesday will carry on. On August 8th, he met his second granddog, GiGi. Her energy, personality, and zoomies always brought a smile to Mark’s face. He appreciated how such a small French Bulldog could be so loyal.
Mark faced life’s challenges with remarkable resilience and strength. He taught us the value of perseverance, the importance of family, and the significance of kindness. His life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Mark is survived by his three daughters Anna aka “lil punkin”, Markell aka “kiddo” Faith aka “buddy ole pal”, his granddaughter Linoy, who affectionately referred to him as “Poppi”, his two granddogs Axyl, who he referred to as “the Ax”, and GiGi. His siblings: Jeff (Mary) Ebert, Marcia (Brad) Smith, Mike (Nika) Ebert and Mary Ebert and his nieces and nephew, Carmen Ebert, Ashleigh (Chris) Carson, and Kevin Ebert.
We will remember Mark Ebert not with tears but with smiles. We would love for everyone in attendance to honor his special request; “Please make sure that everyone that attends is happy and is not sad. To love God and Jesus. Always!”
A special thank you is extended to the West Valley Fire Department, Katie Gabriel, Sergeants Wood and McCarthy, Randy Wilke, and Peter Allen for their support.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 14, 2023 from 5:00–7:30 p.m. at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 North Montana Avenue.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at Cathedral of Saint Helena, 530 North Ewing Street.
Interment will follow the service at Resurrection Cemetery, 3685 North Montana Avenue.
A reception will immediately follow at the social hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, The French Bulldog Rescue Network, or to the charity of your choice.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in our hearts, guiding us and giving us the strength to carry on.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday November 14, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N. Ewing Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial
Following the Funeral Mass
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Resurrection Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Burial
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday November 14, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Cathedral of St. Helena
530 N. Ewing Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial
Following the Funeral Mass
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Resurrection Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Burial
Wednesday November 15, 2023
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
Dan Edwards says
It’s really tough when one of your oldest friends passes. He was one of the nicest people I ever knew. This one really hurts.
RIP old buddy, save a spot for me.
Valerie Hamer Eickmeyer says
Oh my I am in total shock. Mark we will all miss you. Prayers to your family.
Michael l Schara says
The world is a much lesser place for me to live today with the loss and passing of my good friend Mark Ebert from my daily life. Mark was a man of unquestionable honor, honesty, goodness, faith, forgiveness, fun and laughter. Mark Ebert was an absolute gift to me! The Ebert Family is in our prayers as we all come to grips with the loss of this well-loved man.
Michael Glueckert says
Thoughts and prayers too all the family! Mark was a special lifelong friend ! and was loved by so many. There aren’t words enough too describe the void and the sorrow as we mourn the loss . He dearly loved his daughters and grandchild and all his family. Again !so very sorry and rest in peace Mark.
Mike glueckert says
Thoughts and prayers too all the family! Mark was a special lifelong friend ! and was loved by so many. There aren’t words enough too describe the void and the sorrow as we mourn the loss . He dearly loved his daughters and grandchild and all his family. Again !so very sorry and rest in peace Mark.
Dan wayland says
So sorry to hear this . Always had a smile . You will be missed . Give your mom and Kay a hug for me. Rip my friend
Anna says
Miss you. The best always go way too soon .. ❤️
Randi Bartusik says
I’m so sorry to hear about Mark’s passing. My love is sent to the Ebert family, especially my dear friend Mary. May you all find peace and comfort during this time. Randi (Nicolay) Bartusik
Clay Pipinich says
Dam. Im lose for words. Ill see you later Mark. My prayers are with the Ebert Family.
RIP Mr. Ebert.
Steve Lantz says
So sorry for our loss. Mark was a great person.
Rich and Susan Proul says
We are so very sorry to learn of Marks passing. Our thoughts and prayers to the Ebert family. May he rest in peace
Bob Robinson says
Thoughts and prayers to the Ebert family
Vonnie Jenkins says
You will be greatly missed. Keep on smiling!
Eric Barraugh says
thoughts and prayers to the Ebert family. you will be missed Mark,R.I.P.
Bob $ Barb Wilson says
Mark, your smile and voice will be greatly missed. RIP my friend until we meet again. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family
Thomas Juhl says
What a guy!! Mark will be missed. Condolences to the family………
Della Dobbins says
You are going to be missed by all Mark. You were a great friend to me. I will miss your smile and talks. It will be hard not to honk when going by your place and you waving 👋 at whoever it is. You were a friend to all. Keep riding those old tractors 🚜 and trucks 🛻 keep and eye 👁️ on your love ones down here.
I will always love and miss you Ebert. 💔😘
Kerwin LeSueur says
So sorry to hear Mark was a one of a kind always smiling and always had a few words to say every time you will be missed my friend see you on the other side RIP til we meet again
Tanya Hartman says
You were one of a kind Mark and touched so many lives. Rest in peace my friend!
Tom Winfield says
I had the pleasure of visiting with Mark two days prior to his passing, he always had a big smile and was happy to see you. I will miss seeing him around town. He was a great guy! My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Tony Blanton says
Mark will be missed by everyone who knew him! He was great person that always had a smile for everyone! RIP Mark your gone way to soon!
Rosemary Erickson says
Mark was always so happy to see me! I think Mark made everyone feel that way! Truly a wonderful person! My heart goes out to all his friends and family.
Edna says
Mark was truly one of the kindest people I’ve known.
Prayers for his family.
Greg and Cathy Kovich says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all whose lives he touched. We will miss seeing him in his black/red dodge going here and there or at his home “in the hood”. Hoping all the good memories will replace your sorry in the days to come.
Cole Windle says
What a great guy! Always made me laugh.
Jodi Smith says
I was so shocked to hear. I’m so sorry. Praying for strength for his family. I will miss his smiling greetings.
Jacquie Bennett says
I’ve been trying to think of the right words this past few days… Condolences to the family.
Mark you were a fantastic guy and friend. You always made me feel so welcome, no matter what place or situation. Your smile was infectious and humor was an added bonus. Thank you! RIP, you will be dearly missed.
Phylis Shanahan says
Always a good laugh when we would run into each other. Rest in peace Mark. Just too young to go…❤️
Kim Parvinen says
Mark touched the hearts of so many people. His memory will live on . I will alway remember his kind heart, great smile and contagious laugh. My prayers to all. May you find peace and healing in the Lord, and knowing you will all meet again some day.
Joanne M Schara says
Oh Mark, I will miss your friendship so much. Making you dinners, going boating, hitting the Suds Hut for a brew, sitting in your nice home with a gin and tonic, talking politics. Thank you for being such a great friend to Mike and myself for many years. You have no idea how much you will be missed by us and all who knew and loved you. Save me a place in heaven.
Johnna Kanta says
Mark ALWAYS took time STOP and talk, ask how u were doing and left me smiling and laughing. A bright shinning light is gone from the Helena Valley. Wont be the same without you around! I can speak for my entire family when i say you were far more than just a “friend”.You are a part of our family, A best childhood friend, a son, a big brother, and uncle. Thanks for all the amazing hilarious memories, we are all blessed for having u in our lives all these years! God has u in his hands…until we meet again. Thoughts and prayers to the entire Ebert Family.
Eric Landsrud says
Mark was my roommate in college, a very special person and friend. There was no one like Mark, the good lord only made one mold for this fella…he was special, special to everyone. We had so much fun in Bozeman and road trips to Helena. I hadn’t seen Mark for a bit, but I will damn sure miss him.
Rest in peace buddy, we will miss you.
Thinking about you all, my prayers of course.
Eric Landsrud
Mike McHugh says
Never a quiet moment when we were together. Knew everyone and always had a big happy greeting for you and whoever. Going to missed greatly.
Art keeler says
Ebert and I always seemed to pick up where we left off.
I’ll miss that.
Thank you for having the service at St. Helena Cathedral. That’s where we left off.
Chuck Briese says
A person is very fortunate if you have five good friends. One thing for sure mark was a good friend. He surely will be missed by not only me. Mark knew every one and if he meet you once he could remember your name 10 years later.Hooe to see you again.
Scott Moe says
Mark, your humor and great smile is truly going to be greatly missed. Never a dual moment around Mark, he was a great man. Way too young!! RIP my friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Doug Erickson says
You folks have said it all.I was lucky to see his smiling face everyday.we worked together for over 20years. when he retired.We all missed him.we all knew when it was quitting time he was the first one out the door.His call number was 383.he was a Mopar true at hart.He always wanted a 68 charger.He loved his dodge diesels. And his Harley davidson. And mostly his girls. R.i.p ebert.
Apryl Hiatt says
Anna, Markell, and Faith, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you all. Love to you all, Apryl Hiatt and Family
Donna Colley says
Anna, Markell and Faith, Jim and I are truly sorry for your loss, We are praying God will keep his loving arms around you all and give you the peace that only he can give in your time of need.
Sincerely,
Jim & Donna Colley
Mary Lou Haas says
Dear Mary, Jeff, Marcia and Mike,
I am so sorry you have lost your brother. Losing a sibling creates a new kind of hole in your heart. Reading through the comments above it is clear that Mark held a special place in the hearts of a lot of people. That’s my definition of a life well lived. I don’t think I will be able to come to the funeral but he will be in my thoughts for a long time. He was such a cute little boy. A bit of an imp…but cute! I’ll think of him that way.
Susan Lagerquist says
Heaven welcomed one of nicest guys you’d ever meet! He’ll be there welcoming all of us by name when it’s our time with his great smile and outgoing presence. His joyful nature was surely passed down to his beautiful girls, Anna, Markel and Faith. I’m so sorry for you losing him before his time.
Jim Funk says
Hey bud will miss your smile and humor. Where ever you go hope you can ride your Harley. Had good times with you friend.
Catherine Ries says
What a shock! Mark was just a likable, fun loving, happy guy. He brought happiness and laughter wherever he went. He will be missed. May he rest in peace. Prayers, love and comfort to the Ebert family.
Don Andrews says
Mark is a great guy always friendly he will be missed prayers to the family
Jody Kalafat says
Dearest Mark’s family,
Remembering how proud he was of his girls. My heart is broken for you all. Mark was definitely a one of a kind. With his great smile and easy going ways always made you feel welcome.
I know Mark is smiling down at you all from Heaven.
With love,
Jody Kalafat
Larry Chapman says
Mark Ebert was a friend for life!!! He loved his girls, the Dallas Cowboys, Helena, Capital High, Dodge trucks, and loved 359/379 Peterbilt trucks. We gave each other a lot of crap and laughed doing it. Some of his nick names at work and when we would see each other was Mr. Ebert/E Bar T/Tin Horn. Mark hauled a lot of gravel in this Helena area. You will be missed! RIP Mr. Ebert
Karen Henderson says
To Anna and family,
I’m so sorry to learn of your dad’s passing. Thinking of you and sending a big hug.
Tim & Elaine Myles says
We are so shocked to hear this news. Mark always had a smile and a hello whenever we saw him. If he was driving, always a smile and a wave. He always knew you. One of Helena’s best. God Bless.
Cathy Calvin says
When you lose someone in your family or life, inevitably you do the “would have, could have, should have”. I am so glad my brothers and I were able to stop in Helena and have a good visit with our Ebert cousins. It had been awhile. Mark hosted us at his beautiful home and was very gracious. I wish we could have spent more time with our cousin Mark.
Sorry we are unable to make it to services and offer our condolences in person. I do hope we can all connect again soon and share a toast or six to celebrate Mark and his life, and to hear the stories of a man so well loved and held is such high regard. Best wishes and love, cousin Cathy.
Nanette Hicks says
Anna, Markell, Faith, and all of Mark’s family, as these next days, months and years go by without Mark may you find peace and laughter sharing stories and memories of times shared together. He will be missed by all that knew him. Hugs to all and Peace be with you.🙏♥️🙏
Terry Thomas & Teri Bingham says
So sorry to hear of the passing of Mark. Our condolences to the entire family. I will miss chatting about ” current events” , his Harley we painted 20 years ago, and his upbeat attitude. Mark was a Helena legend! RIP Mark, you will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing you !
Karen Harvey Ferguson says
My heart is sad that we lost such a GIFT. But Mark is receiving all his rewards now. I have so many memories that will keep me smiling. Harley rides to Augusta Rodeo, Haufbrau(way too often), Spur, Haps, Sam White’s, adventures with that crazy group of friends. He was hysterically fun, loyal, protective and always a gentleman. Oh and that fast walking stride. Can not forget his MARK-ISMS “7&7 straight to Heaven” and my favorite “gotta go to the round church, so the devil can’t catch me in a corner”
Trent Schara says
Mark had a great influence on my young life. Mike and I would sneak that TT 500, XT 500, and later the YZs out and rip around the valley. I will never forget watching Mark ride wheelies down Montana avenue on that TT and laugh every time I think about that 490 bucking him off in their front pasture or the time he tried to outrun the sheriff and hid out up on Scratch.
Mark was a one of a kind, that’s for sure and I am glad I was able to know him in early and late life.
Rest well old friend, you’ll be missed.
Mike Wirth says
I just can’t believe you’re gone! I will never forget you mark, from the time I was little I remember loving your semi truck and as I got older I always enjoyed seeing you out in wolf creek plowing snow or hauling gravel for the county. I’ll always remember you saying “you gotta take care of those kids Mike, they’re all you got in this life” Rest in peace my friend this world won’t be the same without you
Dave Harvey says
Well it took me awhile to get here Mark, some embarrassment but mostly sadness, that I hadn’t seen or talked to you in probably 10 years. Life sure can get in the way of more important things sometimes. Sister Karen just got done cutting my hair and we sure had some laughs and shared memories of you. You were one fine man, until we meet again sir, I’ll bring the salad dressing this time!
To the Ebert family, may our Lord comfort you in the difficult days ahead, love each other. Fiercely