Mark Gerard Philippi

Mark G. Philippi was born on November 16th, 1953 in Saint Cloud, MN to Elmer and Muriel (Murphy) Philippi. He graduated from ROCORI High School in 1971. He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth “Betty” Hansen on August 19th, 1972. To this union, 4 sons were born.

As a young man, Mark proudly took over owning and operating the Philippi Farm and also worked for Hansen Plumbing and Heating, which were both family run businesses. Later in life, he owned and operated his own plumbing and heating company: Philippi Plumbing and Heating.

Eventually, Mark sold his dairy herd and focused solely on his company. Mark thoroughly enjoyed being his own boss. He loved to socialize and knew the town news before it became the town news. He insisted his daily stops at Kay’s Kitchen, Granite Edge Cafe, and the St. Joe Legion were merely for PR purposes.

Mark loved living on the farm and the peace and tranquility it provided. It was seldom that his kids and grandkids were not found visiting and spending time at the farm, where they were always welcomed by the many farm dogs. Mark also enjoyed riding motorcycle, camping, fishing, a good visit or card game with friends & family, and a hearty meal. No beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart. Mark had a heart of gold.

Mark is survived by his wife: Betty; children: Luke (Lori), Jesse (Melissa), Andrew, Dustin; 5 grandchildren: Jordan, Jayden (Marie), Alexis, Sage, Autumn; sisters: Pattie (Steve) Liestman-Schmid, Susan (Scott) Cheeley; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jeannie; and his brothers, Roger and Andrew.

A special thank you to Mark’s CentraCare Hospice care team for the amazing care you provided.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on Saturday, November 14th, 2026 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the St. Joe Legion.