Mark Luke Luebke, 76, of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2026, at Johnson Lake.

Mark was born on September 12, 1949, in Grand Island, Nebraska, to Edward and Gertrude Luebke. He attended Grand Island Public Schools and graduated from Grand Island Senior High School with the Class of 1967.In 1969, Mark answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably during the Vietnam War and remained proud of his military service throughout his life. Following his honorable discharge, he married the love of his life, Deborah Malleck, on March 31, 1971, in Kearney, Nebraska. Their union was blessed with one daughter, Amie.

After returning home from military service, Mark briefly worked as a lineman before discovering his true calling in the fire service. He joined the Grand Island Fire Department, where he dedicated 30 years of service to protecting his community before retiring. His commitment to the profession extended beyond his local department, as he served as Vice President of the Nebraska Professional Fire Fighters Association and was honored with an invitation to attend the National September 11 Memorial. Never one to sit still, Mark also spent many of his days off laying carpet and tile, a testament to his strong work ethic and willingness to help others.

Mark embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed turkey, pheasant, and deer hunting and treasured every camping trip with family and friends. Fishing, however, was his greatest passion. He cherished his time as a fishing guide in Canada and looked forward to the many fishing adventures that took him to Alaska and Mexico. Whether on the water, around a campfire, or in his kitchen preparing a meal, Mark was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.

Known for his outgoing personality, quick wit, and larger-than-life presence, Mark never met a stranger. Friends and family often joked that he had nine lives, a reflection of his fearless spirit and willingness to take on any adventure. His stories, laughter, and unforgettable character left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Mark’s reputation extended far beyond Nebraska; he was known and loved by people across state lines and throughout the many places his adventures took him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Deborah Luebke of Johnson Lake; daughter, Amie Dawson of O’Neill, Nebraska; grandson, Risken Dawson of O’Neill; brother, Larry (Judy) Luebke of Grand Junction, Colorado; sisters, Loretta “Lori” Tauscher of Austin, Texas, and Martha (Ronnie) Jacobsen of Montana; niece, Kelly (Mike) Devorss of Kearney; along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Gertrude Luebke; sisters, Naomi Evans, Donna Gregg, and Esther Schnase; and brother, Leonard Luebke.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the VFW in Grand Island, Nebraska.

Inurnment with military honors will take place at a later date at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell, Nebraska.

Memorials are suggested to the family of Mark Luebke.

Semper Fidelis, Marine. Your watch is over, but your legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved you.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com