John R. Marks, Jr, of Spearfish, SD, formally of Lead, SD and Boise, ID, rode his last cage into heaven, on May 16, amongst family and friends. Simply said, he will be missed.

John R. Marks, Jr was born June 1, 1950 at La Crosse, Wisconsin to Dr John R. Marks and Mary Francis Gittens. John graduated from the University of Idaho as a mining engineer. John received his Masters there and moved on to work in the mines. In 1981 he chose employment at the Homestake Gold Mine in Lead, SD. John designed and implemented the cooling plant on the 6950 Level.

John was recognized as a renowned mining and ventilation engineer and was the recipient of numerous awards in those disciplines. John received including the Hartman Award in 2008, for outstanding service in the field of mine ventilation engineering. After leaving HMC John went on to do consulting around the world.

John could be found at Lewie's on Wednesday surrounded by friends. He attracted friends from local, state and world communities due to his intelligence, integrity, and humility.

John's greatest love was mentoring young people from baseball to university students.

John was adopted by many families including the Homestake Community and the dialysis unit in Spearfish.

John is survived by Nancy Singleton (sister), brothers Mike, Dave, and Tom and 4 nieces, 3 nephews, and a great nephew. All from Idaho.

At John's request no services will be held.

Arrangements are under the care of Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel in Lead. Online condolences may be left at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com