Mark Smykle, 69

Mark Smykle, 69, of Akron, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, Aug 24, 2021, at his home. A Celebration of Life service, with military honors by the Albert E. Hoschler American Legion, was held Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021 at Rexwinkel Funeral Home in Akron.

Marin Laine Smykle was born Sept. 2, 1951, in Watertown. He was raised by his parents, Kenneth and Joyce (Schnackenburg) Smykle in Hayti, S.D., and later in Brandon. He graduated in 1969 from Brandon Valley High School. Mark enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1970 and was honorably discharged in 1990. He worked in telecommunications for the Air Force and traveled extensively for his job.

He was first stationed in Colorado, where he met and married Mindy Leekley. They were united in marriage on Aug. 17, 1974, in Aurora, Colo. They were first stationed in Denver, Colo., and then moved to Germany. They were able to travel all over Europe during their time in Germany. When they returned to the United States, they moved to Biloxi, Miss., and then Rapid City. Mark continued to travel the world with the Air Force working in Southern Africa, Alaska, Ascension Islands, Turkey, Spain and England. He received numerous commendations during his 20 years of service. After his honorable discharge, they made their home in Sioux Falls, and later Akron.

Mark will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a kind, quiet, and simple man. He was respectful and a friend to all he met. He was very easy going and often had a smile on his face, earning him the nickname “Smiley.” He had impeccable manners and loved to tell a good story. He enjoyed playing pool and chess. He loved Western or “Boomie” movies and enjoyed watching NASCAR, the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Bears.

Mark is survived by his wife, Mindy Smykle; two daughters, Trinity, who he often called “Brat #1,” and her husband, Michael Bates, of Dickinson, N.D., and Paula Lain, who he often called “Brat #2” or “Punkin”, and her husband, Eric Kleinwolterink of Sioux Falls; three grandchildren, Landon Little, Michayla Bates and Joseph Bates. Michayla passed away on July 29, 2004.

He is also survived by three siblings, Linda (Joel) Hanson, Debbie (Kurt) Jasper and Clay (Michele) Smykle; sister-in-law, Yvonne Smykle; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Troy and Greg Smykle.

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