Mark W. Blackman, 65, of Biggsville, IL, passed away on November 6, 2025 surrounded by his family after a 3-year battle with cancer.
He was born on January 20, 1960, to Roger Blackman Sr. and Helen Hartzell. Mark married his Yorkwood High School sweetheart, Joni (Doty) Blackman, and together they shared 45 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife Joni, their daughter Nikki (Brent) Giosta; son, Brandon (Rachel) Blackman and grandchildren, Addie, Cameron, Cassie, and Avery, who were his pride and joy. Mark also leaves behind his mother Helen, siblings Roger (Sue) Blackman, Tony (Kelly) Hartzell, Tina (Tyler) Young, Curt Coburn, David (Cindy) Coburn, Lisa (Bill) Larkins and stepmother Sue Hawk. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Mark was a hard worker throughout his life. He was previously employed by Wilson Foods, Munson Transportation, and worked in the City of Monmouth on the Street department, cemetery and WWTP. Mark enjoyed the outdoors and especially loved hunting with his son and grandson. Mark was a proud gun owner and lifetime member of the NRA. He was known for his ornery spirit and generous nature. As an avid gardener, he was always eager to share his produce with friends and neighbors. Many will remember the countless hours he spent visiting with close friends in his shed, where he could always be found with a cold beer in his hand, telling stories, sharing a laugh, or lending a helping hand. Mark recently began attending Sugar Tree Grove Presbyterian Church.
The family would like to thank all the incredible cancer doctors and nurses, including Candi and those at the Richard Owens Hospice House for their incredible care in his final days.
Memorial Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL. Cremation rites have been accorded. Interment will be in Center Grove Cemetery at a later date. Casual attire is encouraged for the service. A potluck will follow the service at the funeral home. Memorials, if desired, may be made to Sugar Tree Grove Presbyterian Church or the Mark Blackman Memorial Fund, to be designated later and can be sent to the funeral home. For more information or to leave online condolences, please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
