Obituary of Mark Curtis Kjelland

Mark Curtis Kjelland, 61, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at home. He was a resident of Washougal, Washington for the past 9 years. Prior to that, Mark lived in Ellensburg, WA for 11 years. Mark was born on March 31, 1959 in Valley City, North Dakota to his parents, Harry and Kris (Kristensen) Kjelland. Mark is survived by his wife, Cheryl at home; daughters, Katelyn Kjelland of Burien, Washington, Courtney Kjelland of Boulder, Colorado; brother, Erik (Julie Ann) Kjelland of Colorado Springs, Colorado; sisters, Debra (Fred) Vosper of Wilsonville, Oregon, Lisa (Dan) Ruebke of Ada, Minnesota. Mark was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Roy Paetzke. Mark had an extensive work history in the utility industry. Since 2011, Mark worked for Bonneville Power Administration as a Manager of Transmission Engineering Line Maintenance. Prior to that, he worked with Kittitas County PUD as a General Manager from 2001-2011. While serving as GM, he belonged to the Morning Rotary, the County Economic Development Board, the Clymer Museum Board, and was a Chamber Cowboy. He also volunteered for the Kittitas County Hospital Foundation, the Kittitas County Fair and Rodeo, Western Art Show, and Relay for Life. From 1991-2001, Mark worked at PacifiCorp as a Corporate Manager and Director of Transmission Distribution and Civil Engineering. From 1986-1991, Mark worked with Arizona Public Service as a Civil Engineer. He earned his associate degree in Architectural Drafting and Estimating from North Dakota State School of Science and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from North Dakota State University. Mark was an avid fisherman, hunter, and hiker. He was also an amazing artist. He chose to paint for others and gave many of his pieces of art to family and friends. He loved to cook and watched the Food Channel to try new recipes. His daughters, Katey and Courtney, were the center of his life. He always talked about how proud he was of his girls. Mark was also proud of his Viking heritage and was excited to pass on knowledge to anyone. Vikings are known for being strong and fearless warriors, which are traits he has embodied throughout his life, Being a descendent of Vikings and growing up in the Midwest, Mark was a huge fan of the Minnesota Vikings. You would always find Mark representing the Vikings, whether it be with a purple t-shirt, beanie or hat! He stayed a true and loyal Viking fan through all the ups and down that came with rooting for his team! Mark was an incredible husband, father, friend, and boss. He was a great guy who would outwork anyone and always give you the shirt off his back. He will be missed by all. Per Mark’s request, there will be a private distribution of his ashes at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown's Funeral Home in Camas, Washington. To send condolences to the family, please sign his online guest book at www.brownsfh@yahoo.com