Mark Lesko, Burlington…age 69, passed away unexpectedly due to an UTV accident on Thursday June 4 or Friday, June 5.
Mark joined WWOA in 1999 and soon became an avid volunteer at the WWOA Foundation’s Seno Woodland Education Center. He spent many hours improving the facilities and habitats there. He continued to volunteer there after the WWOA Foundation transferred the property to the Kenosha/Racine Land Trust. He also volunteered as a WWOA Woodland Mentor, sharing his knowledge and love of caring for his land with other WWOA members.
Mark was an outdoorsman in every sense of the word. He found joy, purpose, and peace outside, and spent nearly every spare moment working on a project, improving the land, or helping it thrive. Whether tending his own property and tree nursery, volunteering countless hours with Seno K/RLT, or lending a hand to friends, neighbors, and strangers alike, Mark was a true steward of the land. He saw potential everywhere and worked tirelessly to leave every place better than he found it.
Mark possessed a remarkable gift for teaching. He generously shared his knowledge, skills, and wisdom with anyone eager to learn. Whether identifying plants and wildlife, teaching practical skills, explaining how something worked, or helping someone tackle a difficult project, he found genuine joy in passing along what he knew. His patience, encouragement, and willingness to help made him a trusted mentor and friend to many.
While his accomplishments were numerous, Mark’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He met and married his graduate school sweetheart, Janet, and from the moment they found each other, they were true soulmates. Together, they shared 45 wonderful years filled with love, partnership, laughter, and adventure. Mark was a devoted husband who adored Janet, and theirs was a rare and enduring love built on unwavering support, deep friendship, and mutual respect. Together, they created a life centered on family, hard work, and shared values.
Mark leaves behind a legacy of stewardship, knowledge, generosity, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the lessons he taught, the land he cared for, the projects he completed, and the lives he touched will continue to reflect the remarkable man he was for generations to come.
Memorials to Seno K/RLT Conservancy, 3606 Dyer Lake Road, Burlington, WI 53105 would be appreciated.