Mark James LaTender of Waukesha, WI has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
Behind every name is a life, and behind every life are the people who loved it.
Grief is love with nowhere left to go.
Mark James LaTender, affectionately known as “Marky,” passed away on May 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, creativity, and genuine connection with those who knew him.Born on November 13, 1974, to Mark LaRoque and Janelle Powless-LaTender, Marky grew into someone who never missed a chance to make others smile. He had a playful spirit; quick with a joke, a tease, or a laugh, and he brought a lightness to every room he entered. His sense of humor was one of his greatest gifts, and it made people feel at ease and welcomed.Marky found joy in expressing himself through break dancing and drawing, and he had a love for baseball that stayed with him throughout his life. Whether he was moving to music, putting pencil to paper, or enjoying the game, he approached his interests with energy and heart.He is survived by his parents, Mark LaRoque and Janelle Powless-LaTender; his sister, Diane LaRoque; and his cherished adopted mother, Janice Prohazka. He will also be deeply missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and many friends whose lives he touched in his own unique way.Marky’s presence was one that could not be overlooked; he made people laugh a little louder and moments feel a little brighter. The world feels quieter without him, and life will not be the same without his humor and spirit. Still, those who knew and loved him will carry his memory forward in the laughter he inspired and the love he shared so freely.A visitation will be held at Krause Funeral Home (12401 W. National Ave, New Berlin, WI 53151) on Monday, May 11, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM and continuing until the time of service at 12:00 PM.
