Marcus “Marc/Wawa” Washburn passed away on Saturday, February 7th, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital from complications suffered after a cardiac arrest on December 26th while playing a sport he loved, pickleball. Marc passed peacefully six weeks later with his family by his side.

Marc was born on April 27, 1950, to Harvey and Mona Washburn and graduated from Anoka High School in 1968. He was the youngest of four brothers: Jack, Larry, and Chris. During his school years, Marc formed lifelong friendships that remained close and meaningful throughout his life. He attended Bemidji State College for a time before enlisting in the National Guard.

While serving in the National Guard, Marc began what would become his lifelong career with Axel Ohman Concrete. Before meeting his wife, Mary, he further strengthened his many friendships through involvement in Wawa’s softball teams, broomball teams, and numerous other activities that reflected his love of camaraderie and community.

Marc met his loving wife, Mary, in July of 1978, and they were married in July of 1981. They made their home together in Anoka, MN. Over the years, Marc created a legacy in Anoka by being involved in community events, coaching his children’s various sports teams, and being a friend to all. Marc prided himself on being a devoted husband and, above all else, loved being a dad to his three children. In addition to being a father, he found immense joy and happiness spending time with extended family during cherished Christmas gatherings, making lasting memories, enjoying countless pontoon rides at Gull Lake in the summer, and taking family vacations to Florida in the spring.

In his later years, Marc retired and began working as a bus driver, a retirement activity he enjoyed. Marc loved playing pickleball and developed many newfound friendships through the sport. During this time, he also welcomed four grandchildren, whom he adored. Becoming a grandpa brought Marc a new and profound happiness. His face lit up when he was near his grandchildren, and his love for them was evident in every story he shared, the endless root beer floats, and nightly FaceTime calls with them all. Marc was a man of deep faith, devoted to the Lord, and had no uncertainty about his eternal life in Heaven.

Marc will be remembered as a man whom everyone thought of as “their best friend,” as well as the most loving father, devoted husband, cherished grandfather, and a friend to all. His absence leaves a void larger than words can express. Marc’s legacy continues through his children, grandchildren, and the friendships he deeply valued.

Marc was preceded in death by his parents, Mona and Harvey Washburn; brothers Jack Washburn and Larry (Marian) Washburn; and in-laws Ed and Elaine Simonet, James “Swanny” Swanson, Eddie Simonet, and Joe Simonet. Marc is survived by his wife of 44 years, Mary Washburn; their children Kellie (Tony, granddaughter Emma, and love bear Labrador “Hank”) Rogers, Ryan (Hillary, grandsons Walker, Landon, and Gabriel) Washburn, and Katie (Matt) Holthaus; brother Chris (Linda) Washburn. Additionally, he is survived by in-laws Marilyn Washburn, Anne Simonet, Denise Swanson, Kate and Mark Runde, Jim and Challene Simonet, Roy and Margaret Anderson, and many nieces and nephews, all of whom he cherished spending time with.

Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17th, with visitation one hour prior at 10:00 a.m., at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, 525 Jackson Street, Anoka, MN. Visitation will also be held from 4:00–7:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 16th, at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Avenue, Anoka, MN. Following Mass, all are invited to a luncheon at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church.

Memorials will be used toward a memorial bench in the Anoka area.