Karl "Mark" Wetherell

Mark was born in Hardin, Montana on February 23, 1956 to Thomas and Bonnie (Bowles) Wetherell. Both of his parents preceded him in death.

From a young age Mark was fascinated with flight, often building model airplanes from balsa wood at his family home in Montana. After completion of high school, Mark pursued his passion for aviation and graduated with honors from the Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, OK. Mark then transitioned into a career in the United States Air Force, where he flew early generations of American fighter jet planes, including the F-4 Phantom II.

After an Honorable Discharge from the Air Force, Mark founded PICME Aviation in Springfield, a flight school that trained pilots all over the country. His love and passion for aviation resonated throughout his entire life.

After retirement, Mark focused his time and energy on helping others. He enjoyed yardwork and landscaping, and helping his friends with their homes. His yard was always kept in pristine condition, of which he was most proud.

Mark met his wife Dagmar through mutual close friends Trey and Cindy Furling. With the help of Dagmar’s daughters, Mark orchestrated a very romantic proposal for marriage in Dagmar’s heritage language of German. They were married on March 2, 2007.

Mark is survived by his wife Dagmar, his daughter, Erin Childs of Las Vegas, NV, two step-daughters, Stephanie (Nicholas) Shay-Williams of Springfield, and Rebekka Shay of Tampa, FL, four grandsons and two step-grandsons, his sister, Julie (Bruce) Walbaum of Jacksonville, IL, and two brothers; Milt (Trish) Wetherell and Matthew (Rebecca) Wetherell, both of Springfield, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Private family services will be held in accordance with Mark’s wishes. He will be laid to rest in Camp Butler National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish, may remember Mark through memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association 2309 W. White Oaks Dr. Suite E Springfield, IL 62704 or the Lincoln Land Community College Aviation Program 815 Airport Dr. Springfield, IL. 62707.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home. 217-544-5424