Mark Howard Schloemer

they speak. Mark Schloemer was one of those people — warm, funny, endlessly curious, and always ready with a story that somehow made you laugh, think, and shake your head all at once. Mark Schloemer of Waterloo, IA passed away suddenly at the age of 65, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply and a lifetime of memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026 in The Runge Mortuary Chapel at 10:00 AM, with visitation from 5-8PM on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at The Runge Mortuary. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family. Tributes and condolences may be made at www.therungemortuary.com.

Mark was born on January 20, 1961, in Iowa City; son of Walter and Mary Ann Schloemer, who raised a boy with a big imagination, a big heart, and a lifelong fascination with trains. His first job was at Red’s DX gas station, pumping gas and learning the value of hard work — something that would define the rest of his life.

After graduating from Davenport West High School in 1979, Mark stepped straight onto the railroad — first as a Switchman for the Davenport Rock Island Line, Milwaukee Road, and the Soo Line. Mark became a certified engineer in February 1991. He worked as an engineer for the OP Rail. He continued as an engineer and switchman with the National Railway Equipment Company. In July 2005 up to his death, Mark was an engineer and switchman for Iowa Northern Railroad. He did not just work on the railroad; he lived it. He could talk trains for hours, and somehow, you would find yourself listening for just as long.

In high school, Mark played in both band and orchestra, photography, and he also played baseball — a sport he loved and remembered fondly throughout his life. Music, sports, and the camaraderie of those early years stayed with him. With dedication, humor and passion, he served his community through the Flame Tamers, later Speedway Fire and Rescue, ultimately holding the position Deputy Chief.

Mark had a creative streak that showed up in the details: the way he framed a photograph, the care he put into painting war figurines and models, and the pride he took in getting every tiny detail just right. On weekends, he loved playing war games, immersing himself in strategy, imagination, and the joy of friendly competition. He loved the St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, comedy, music, WWII history and sharing the things that made him happy with the people he loved.

On June 13, 1998, Mark married Tammi Gile, the love of his life. Together they built a family full of laughter, resilience, and stories that will be told for generations.

Mark’s surviving family includes his wife, Tammi Schloemer; his children Leighanne Schloemer, Joseph (Paige) Schloemer, and Tara (Matthew) Carlson; and his grandchildren Layla Dittmer, Anthony Gile Jr., Hazyl Gile, Maveryck Gile and Raelynn Sondag, who brought him endless joy. He is survived by his brother Kevin (Julie) Schloemer.

Mark is also survived by his both his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard and Sandy Gile. Along with the many sisters he gained when marrying his wife, Tammi; including Melinda (Chris) Truitt, Shiela Gile (Steve Carlson), Karen (Tony), Frazier, Annette Gile (Richard Janus), and all his nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Mary Ann Schloemer, his brother-in-law Richard Gile Jr., his son Anthony Gile, and numerous other relatives that have passed, whom he carried in his heart every day.

Mark’s life was full — full of work he believed in, hobbies that lit him up, and people he loved fiercely. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, stories, and the kind of love that does not fade. Those who knew him will miss his voice, his humor, and the way he could make even an ordinary moment feel like something worth remembering.

And if there is a railroad in heaven, you can bet Mark’s already found it — and he is telling someone all about it.