Mark E. Ortman

Mark Edward Ortman, 64, Pound, WI, died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. He was born December 2, 1959, in Mitchell, SD to Edward and Bernice (Becker) Ortman. He graduated from Pipestone Area High School with the class of 1978. Mark received a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Studies from North Central Bible College (’82) in Minneapolis, MN. He married Ruth Tims on September 3, 1983, in Slayton, MN and together they raised two children, Joel and Jessica.

As a pastor, Mark began his ministry in Greenwood, WI; also serving in Omro, WI; Granada, MN; Antigo, WI; Windom, MN; and officially retired from ministry after 24 years at Ironwood Assembly of God Ironwood, MI in April of 2023.  Mark and Ruth then moved to Pound to be near kids and grandkids, where he continued ministry at Hillside North, leading an adult Bible Study and helping as needed. His love for the Lord was tangible as he continued to serve others and was always willing to help anyone in need.

Mark was very active within the Wisconsin Northern Michigan Network of Assembly of God Churches. He served on the Advisory Board for Assembly Park Bible Camp at Lake Nebagamon, WI; as well as several terms as Section 1 Presbyter. Locally he served as the President of the Ironwood Clergy Association.

Mark loved to study and share God’s Word. He was a loving husband and devoted father and grandfather. He also enjoyed woodworking, from rough carpentry to fine craftsmanship, creating many heirloom pieces for family and friends. Other hobbies include music, both singing and playing multiple instruments. He loved everything about trains, hunting, fishing, reading, grilling, and gardening (the plants don’t have opinions!).

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Linda Farmer. Survivors are his wife of 41 years, Ruth; son, Joel (Dr. Holly) Ortman of Marinette, WI; daughter, Jessica Ortman of Peshtigo, WI; three grandchildren, Adriana, Julia, and baby due in March 2025; brother, Dale (Tonia) Ortman and family of Jasper, GA; and brother-in-law, Calvin Farmer and family of Pipestone, MN. He is also survived by uncles, aunts, and cousins along with other relations.

Visitation will start at 9:00 AM Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Hillside Assembly of God in Gillett until the time of service. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday at the church, with Reverend Jonathan Carlson officiating along with Reverend Paul Carlson, District Superintendent Reverend John Davis, and Reverend Dean Hinther. Committal service and burial will take place at Brazeau Cemetery. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Ortman family.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorials be designated toward Fire Bibles and Assemblies of God World Missions.