Mark Dana Schafer, 59, of Owatonna, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025, unexpectedly at his home.

He was born February 17, 1966, in Jamestown, North Dakota, to Duane "Tiny" and Shirley (Borderud) Schafer. Mark graduated from Jamestown High School. He participated in hockey, swimming and cross country during his high school days. He went to Valley City State College for one year, then went to Arizona & California for a while. Came back and was working at Fargo Truss Company until his work injury. He then went to ND State College of Science and Alexandria Technical College earning a degree in AutoCad. On June 19, 2001, Mark was united in marriage to Connie Nelson in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Mark worked at various jobs before working at Godfather's Pizza until his passing. He really enjoyed playing poker, golf and joined both darts and pool leagues. He was always cheering on the Minnesota sports teams whether it was the Wild, Vikings, or Twins. He also had a passion for cheering on the North Dakota Fighting Sioux.

Mark was an athlete that loved his heavy music, who was determined to do things independently, that was stoic and tough and was unapologetically himself, but yet loved to be a father and grandpa.

Mark is survived by his mother, Shirley Schafer; spouse, Connie Nelson-Schafer; son, Tyler Schafer; daughters, Ashlynn and Haylee Schafer; step-son Wesley Nelson; granddaughter, Vienna; brother, Mike (and Karina) Schafer; sister, Jill (and Louie) Weigel; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Duane Schafer, and brother, Scott Schafer.

A visitation will be will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 4PM-7PM at Michaelson Funeral Home.