Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend

Mark passed away Tuesday July 28th, 2026 after a brief illness, complicated by Miller Fisher Syndrome. He was surrounded by his family.

Mark was born on December18th, 1949 in Appleton WI. His childhood was spent in Appleton, Denver and Seattle. Life on Cherry Hill in Seattle provided Mark with some of his fondest memories. He kept us entertained with stories of epic neighborhood mud fights, eating fruit right from the trees, and memorable characters like the Mean Old Goat Lady. Mark often spoke of how formative it was to watch a local native artist carve a totem pole destined for Seattle's sister-city in Japan. His biggest thrill came early on when he was gifted a go-kart by his dad. His passion for racing started then and he never wanted to go slow again.

After returning to Appleton he attended Appleton East High School and UW Milwaukee and Oshkosh. He eventually moved out to California to pursue a career in racing. He was fortunate to have been mentored by Peter Weismann, who with his wife Michelle, became lifelong friends. It was Pete who helped him work at the Indy 500. Mark had a technical mind, always wanting to know how things worked, why they worked, and how to use them. He used this knowledge to eventually establish his own business, Speedway Classics. His customers appreciated his expertise in restoring vintage British sportscars, giving attention to every detail. Mark took great pride in his work.

His passion for auto racing wasn't just as a spectator, but also as a participant. He loved competing at Road America and Mid-Ohio vintage events in his 1959 Austin Healey Bugeye Sprite. His driving skills, paired with his mechanical talents, were impressive at the track.

Mark was a thoughtful man with deep convictions. He wasn't religious, but rather had his own personal spirituality. He believed that life was a gift that should never be wasted. He put great value on friendships and family. He loved his family, including the furry kids, and provided us with a lifetime of memories. Mark was a nature lover who was often caught talking to squirrels, and believed that everyone should have a dog to love.  He instilled great values in his children; they respected, admired and deeply loved their dad.

Mark is survived by his wife Barb, son Nick, daughter and son-in-law, Liz and Chris Dietz, and his beloved grandchildren Tazio and Beryl Dietz. He is also survived by his two brothers, Gary Pirner and his wife Sherry, and Ron Pirner. He leaves behind many good friends that he valued and appreciated.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Ed and Janette Pirner, for whom he provided loving care and support until their passing.

We will gather to honor Mark on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 3-6 pm at Brettschneider-Trettin-Nickel Funeral Home. Mark's wishes were to have his ashes spread on the track at Road America… (when no one was looking).

We will carry your love in our hearts forever.

We miss you Grandpa.

In honor of Mark's love of a good story, the family wishes to put together a collection of written memories that can be cherished for years to come.  Please feel free to bring one…or more.