Mark Anthony Pohren

Mark Anthony Pohren, 72, passed away on October 19th, 2021 in Fairfield, IA.  Mark was born October 19th, 1949 in Fairfield, IA to Richard “Pete” and Annabelle (Caviness) Pohren.

Mark married Diana Jane Heminger August of 1980 and they later separated.

Mark grew up on the family farm in Pleasant Plain, IA.  He graduated from Fairfield High School in 1968.  In school he excelled at all things industrial arts.  He played football and wrestled, coining the nickname “Bird-dog” for his abilities on the football field.  He later went on to college at Centerville Community College and East Carolina University where he also played football and wrestled.  Upon graduation, Mark traveled back to Iowa with his two dogs in his beloved Metropolitan convertible.  Mark began his career as an industrial arts teacher in the 1970s at WACO High School.  He then continued his teaching career at Fairfield High School in 1987, retiring in 2006.  Mark also worked alongside his father “Grandpa Pete” for many years on the farm.

Mark enjoyed working on and collecting vehicles, specifically; Nash-Metropolitans, Morris Minors, M.G. cars and most things Mopar.  He was talented at woodworking and often had unique ideas for designing projects.  He was always willing to lend a hand and could fix almost anything.  Mark was known for his quirky sense of humor, had the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and made friends almost anywhere he went.  He was a great teacher and touched the lives of many students.  Mark will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Lawrence Pohren and Robert Pohren, and nephews Jeff Pohren and Tom Pohren.

Left to share his memory are his children, Angie Pohren of Fairfield, Cassie (Chris) Harryman of Fairfield, David (Bianca) Pohren of Quasqueton, IA; five grandchildren, Hailey Pohren-Gevock, Blake Sobaski, Caleb, Hudson and Arya Pohren; four siblings, Kay Adam of Des Moines, IA, Jean (Tony) Yelovich of South Bend, IN, Dick (Kay) Pohren of Pleasant Plain, IA, Rita Pohren of Florida, sister-in-law Liz Pohren of Fairfield, sister-in-law Becky Pohren of Keosauqua, IA, and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A Mass with Christian Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Pleasant Plain at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, November 18, 2021 , with Father Rob Lathrop officiating.  Time of fellowship will follow the service.  Inurnment will be at a later date at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials can be mailed to the Fairfield High School Industrial Arts Program 605 E. Broadway Ave Fairfield, IA 52556.