Mark Stafford 09/13/2025

Mark Patrick Stafford
January 29, 1958 – September 13, 2025

Mark Patrick Stafford of River Falls, WI, passed away suddenly at his home on September 13, 2025, with his wife, Polly, by his side.

Born in St. Louis Park, MN, on January 29, 1958, Mark moved with his family to River Falls in 1965. He attended St. Bridget Parochial School and graduated from River Falls Senior High in 1976, where he excelled in sports, especially football. Mark went on to play at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls before transferring to St. Cloud State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1980.

After college, Mark met and married his first wife, Sara (Niewald) Stafford, and together they welcomed two sons, Andrew (33) and Mitchell (31). In 1999, life brought Mark full circle when he reconnected with his childhood friend, Polly Smith. The two had been friends since the age of eight, and they married on June 23, 2001.

Family was at the center of Mark’s life. Mark would say his greatest accomplishment was his boys, and then came the arrival of his grandson, George Patrick. Mark was “over the moon” in love with George and took great pride in being his grandpa. Fittingly, he spent his final hours with Polly, caring for George.

Mark was an avid golfer and celebrated two hole-in-ones! He enjoyed golfing with his brothers and sons, and in true Mark fashion, he would spend the night before tee-time polishing his golf balls to perfection. Mark was also a devoted Minnesota sports fan, despite the friendly rivalry at home with Polly, a loyal Packers fan. Their home became the natural gathering place for holidays, celebrations, and game days, where Mark’s warmth, humor, and generosity made everyone feel welcome.

Curious and outgoing by nature, Mark had a love for history, trivia, and conversation. He brought his own humor and spin to every story he told, often turning ordinary moments into memorable ones. His career in sales, whether in print, cars, or real estate, reflected his gift for connecting with people.

In retirement, Mark and Polly traveled abroad, where his love of history made him a fun travel companion. They also shared many adventures closer to home—skiing and hiking at their condo in Colorado during the winters and biking together in the summers. Mark also found simple joy at home, whether spending time watching golf with Polly or taking pride in the little things, like keeping everything clean and just the way he liked it.

Above all, Mark will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his love of family, and his ability to make others feel seen and valued.
Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Dorie Stafford. To continue his legacy, he is survived by his wife Polly, 2 sons Andrew (fiancée Emily Boosalis) and Mitchell Stafford, grandson George Patrick Stafford, siblings Sheila Stafford (Phil Mattix), David Stafford, John (Laura) Stafford, and Tom (Jamie) Stafford, nieces Ellie Mattix (Matthew Cutshall) and Annie Mattix, Uncles, Aunts and many cousins. He will be missed very much.

The family would like to thank the first responders and dispatchers who provided guidance and a calming presence during a terrifying emergency. Their efforts and kindness are deeply appreciated and will never be forgotten. They’d also like to thank the Deputy Medical Examiner and Bakken-Young.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am with a brief service at 1:30 pm (which will be livestreamed via the link below) at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E. Division Street) in River Falls. A reception will follow from 2:00 – 5:00 pm at the River Falls Golf Club (2120 E. Division Street).

In lieu of memorials, the family asks that you take care of your heart, overall health, and live each day to the fullest. Remember to tell the people in your lives that you love them.

Click here to watch the memory sharing service live at 1:30 pm