Mark Kroll “Cowboy”

Mark passed away suddenly at his home on March 26, 2026, at the age of 74.

A proud Eastsider through and through, Mark grew up at Lockwood Playground, where he excelled in both hockey and baseball. It was there he earned the nickname “Cowboy”—and for the record, Mark “Cowboy” never owned a pair of cowboy boots or a cowboy hat.

He attended St. Casimir and Cleveland before going on to Johnson High School, where he played varsity hockey and baseball. After graduation, Mark served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1972–1976, including time stationed in Alaska.

Following his service, Mark began a long and dedicated career at the Stillwater Correctional Facility, where he worked his way up to Lieutenant before retiring in 2007.

Mark lived life fully and simply. He loved riding his motorcycle, playing hockey, coaching girl's fastpitch softball at Hill-Murray, and cheering on the Minnesota Wild and Vikings. He was especially at home on the golf course, spending countless hours at Manitou Ridge and Phalen Park Golf Course—where he later worked part-time in retirement.

He was a man who gave back without hesitation. Mark supported the Wounded Warrior Project, volunteered at homeless shelters and the White Bear Lake American Legion Post 168, and was an organ donor. He was always ready to lend a hand—or a ride—as a greatly appreciated “airport taxi.”

More than anything, Mark will be remembered for his spirit—always smiling, always ready to pull someone into a conversation, and always leaving people better than he found them. He lived by a few simple sayings:

· “Keep it simple.”

· “Life is good.”

· “PBR me, ASAP.”

· “A smile goes a long way.”

And if you knew Mark, you know—he always had that smile and a twinkle in his eye.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved longtime partner, Theresa Dunn (Sugar Britches), and by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. There will be a Three-Volley Salute, which will be performed at 4:45 p.m. in honor of Mark’s service, followed by a brief service at 5:00 p.m. The event will take place at the Arcade-Phalen American Legion Post 577, 1129 Arcade Street, St. Paul.