Mark Edward Kubiske

Mark Edward Kubiske, 66, of Rhinelander, passed away March 25, 2025, in the presence and care of his loving wife Bridget, at Meriter Unity Point Hospital in Madison.

Mark grew up in the forests, waterways, and rocky mounds of Black River Falls, where he developed a lifelong love of fishing, the outdoors, and football. One of his favorite experiences was Canadian fishing trips with his buddies. He first married in 1982, moving to La Crosse and Stevens Point, where he displayed exceptional ability in mathematics and science, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in forestry. From there, he attended Penn State University to reach his goal of a doctorate in plant physiology and become an avid PSU Nittany Lion football fan. After a brief stay at a scientific research station in Houghton, Mich., he worked as a professor at Mississippi State University. Mark obtained employment with the U.S. Forest Service in Rhinelander, working on the FACE project. There, he made significant and well-recognized contributions to studying industrialization on forest ecology.

He is survived by his wife, Bridget; his children, Aaron and James, and their mother, Alice; his brother, Allen (Gayle) Kubiske; and Bridget’s children, Carol, Douglas and Jodi. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jaxon, Markus, Harley, Niylah, Owen, Noah and Rylee Gene; his good friend, Kirk Harms; brother-in-law, Andy Robinson; and his beloved pets, Lennon, Henry and Bella. Additionally, he leaves behind two nephews, one niece, and numerous cousins and extended family.

Those who knew Mark will remember him for his sense of humor, appreciation for the peace of poetry and classical music, his caring nature, and soft-spoken manner. He had a brilliant scientific mind and could readily discuss quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and geology. He showed admirable strength of character, overcoming many obstacles and gaining wisdom and appreciation for life around him.

The visitation for Mark will take place on Friday, April 11, at the Hildebrand Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m. A second visitation will be held on Saturday afternoon, April 12, from 2 until the 3 p.m. funeral service. Chaplain John Uhlarik will officiate. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.