Mark Edwin "Wildman" Bajtka

It is with profound sadness yet deep appreciation for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Mark Edwin "Wildman" Bajtka, who departed this world peacefully at his home on June 2, 2026. Born in Muskegon, Michigan, on July 8, 1958, Mark's journey through life was marked by courage, love, and relentless dedication. Mark was the beloved son of Edwin Roberts and Joyce (Zeller) Bajtka, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his sister, Jan Luzadder, and cherished friends, Robert Perkins and Freddy Knapp. His legacy, however, lives on through his surviving family: his devoted daughters, Danyel (Brandon) Rath and Natasha (Nathan) Russell of Oregon, and his loving son, Vincent (Deanna) Bajtka of Hesperia, Michigan. Mark was the proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Avery Russell, Ashton Bajtka, Zander Bajtka, Madyssen Russell, Skylar Bajtka, Ethan Bajtka, Braelynn Rath, and MaKayla Bajtka. He is also survived by his father, Edward Bajtka of Montague, Michigan, and his sister, Joni (Robert) Houseman of North Muskegon, Michigan. Mark's life was enriched by the companionship of close friends and family, including Terry Ranthun, Butch Knapp, Sammy Brudflat, Adam Baird, and Dan Kilinski. Their shared memories and experiences stand as testaments to the warmth and generosity that Mark extended to all who knew him. Mark's educational journey began at Montague High School, where he attended from 1972 to 1976. During his senior year, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps on May 10, 1976. Stationed at Camp Pendleton, California, he served with pride and distinction in the 7th Motor Transport Battalion, earning his GED and the Second Expert Rifleman commendation. Mark was promoted to Private First Class in December 1976 and bid farewell to the Marines on October 4, 1977. His time in the military ingrained in him a sense of discipline, loyalty, and an enduring love for his country. After his military service, Mark dedicated a decade to Booth Radiator in Muskegon, Michigan, before embarking on a new adventure by starting his own automotive business from home in 2000. He retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and integrity. Mark's life was filled with passions that extended beyond his professional pursuits. He was an active member of the Eagles in Fruitport, Michigan, since 2012 and the American Legion in Whitehall, Michigan, since 2020. A man of the outdoors, Mark found solace in gardening, fishing, and lounging on the beach. His creative spirit found expression in his love for building model cars and airplanes, and his keen eye for detail was evident in his extensive coin collection. In 1980, while living in California, Mark met Lawanna Freeman in Santa Rosa, California. Together, they built a beautiful life, welcoming their daughter Natasha in 1984 and their son Vincent in 1988. Mark also embraced the role of stepfather to Danyel, forming a family bound by love and shared experiences. Mark's life will be celebrated on June 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at his home, located at 2884 West Wilki Road, Rothbury, Michigan, 49452. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mark's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart. Donations can be made at St. Jude's Donation Page. Mark Edwin "Wildman" Bajtka will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, his love for family and friends, and his generous, open heart. His legacy is one of love, adventure, and a life beautifully lived. May he rest in peace, forever cherished by those who were fortunate to know him.