Mark David Henschel

Mark David Henschel, 68, of Elba, Minnesota, passed away at his home on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Mark was born on July 20, 1958, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Dexter and Janet (Nelson) Henschel. He was baptized at Stordahl Lutheran Church in Zumbrota and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1976 and briefly lived in the Twin Cities following graduation.

In 1980, Mark enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Germany until 1984. During his military service, he trained as a machinist and welder, a trade he mastered throughout his life. Mark was an exceptionally skilled welder and took great pride in his work, always striving for perfection.

Mark had a passion for riding bikes and motorcycles, especially restoring vintage BSA collector motorcycles. He had an engineer’s mind and was fascinated by how things worked. While living in Germany, he spent 30 days biking through Europe, combining train travel and cycling to explore the countryside.

A talented cook and gardener, Mark grew an abundance of fruits and vegetables and was always happy to share his harvest, especially tomatoes and snap peas, with family and friends. He was also cat lover, caring for and adopting many neighborhood stray cats throughout the years.

Mark spent most of his life in southeastern Minnesota, living in Rock Dell, Grand Meadow, St. Charles, and Elba. He retired from Ferguson Trailers in Dover, where he worked for many years.

Mark is survived by his parents, Dexter and Jan Henschel; and his sister, Terry Henschel. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Virgil and Lois Henschel and Arthur and Lillie Nelson; his uncle, Ned Henschel; and his aunts and uncles, Erling and Shirley Baker and Roger and Joyce Floan.

A memorial service for Mark will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at Berea Moravian Church, St. Charles with a burial to follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials preferred to Berea Moravian Church or to the donor's choice.