Born on October 5, 1957, in Springfield, Illinois, Mark was the cherished son of Ed and Shirley Pedigo. He was preceded in death by his father, Edgar Pedigo. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories that will continue to live on in all who knew him.
Mark is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, JoDee Pedigo. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love, partnership, and countless memories. He was a proud and loving father to Sara (Ryan) and Scott (Megan), who brought him endless joy and were among his greatest blessings in life.
He was also a deeply proud grandfather to Ada and Lola Skolaski, and Brynlee and Reagan Pedigo. His grandchildren held such a special place in his heart, and the love he had for them was evident in every smile, every story, and every moment spent together.
Mark is also survived by his mother, Shirley Lynn; his brother, Tim (Kathie); and many treasured friends who felt more like family.
A 1976 graduate of Easton High School, Mark went on to earn his Associate’s degree in Agricultural Sciences from Black Hawk East in Kewanee, Illinois. He dedicated 45 years of his life to Growmark Corporation, where his strong work ethic, knowledge, and commitment earned the respect of so many.
Mark had a true gift for making people feel welcome. He never met a stranger, and to know him was to love him. He was the life of the party, always quick with a joke, a witty remark, and a smile that could light up a room. He had a way of bringing laughter wherever he went, and his presence made every gathering feel a little brighter. He was truly loved by all those around him.
Some of Mark’s greatest joys in life were found outdoors. He had a deep love for hunting and fishing, and those who knew him knew how much happiness those simple pleasures brought him. Whether he was casting a line, heading out for a hunt, or simply spending time in nature, that was where he felt most at peace. He loved the excitement of the outdoors, the quiet beauty of the early morning, and the stories that always came from time spent doing what he loved.
One of the traditions he treasured most was the annual family vacation to Big McDonald Lake Resort. Those trips were more than just vacations. They were times of laughter, connection, adventure, and making memories with the people he loved most. The time spent at the lake became a cherished part of family life, and those memories will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all who shared them with him.
Above all, Mark loved his people well. While his absence leaves an ache that words cannot fully express, we find great comfort in knowing that Mark is now experiencing everlasting life in heaven. Our faith gives us peace in the midst of sorrow, and we hold tightly to the promise that this goodbye is not forever. We rejoice in knowing that one day, we will all be reunited again.
A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at Hurley Funeral Home in Havana, Illinois. The family extends their sincere gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Compassus Hospice for the extraordinary care, comfort, and kindness they provided in Mark’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to KBSTRONG - Fighting the Fight, whose mission is to raise awareness of Glioblastoma, fund research, and help those affected by this terrible disease, or to Ducks Unlimited in memory of Mark Pedigo.
KBSTRONG - Fighting the Fight
PO Box 35
Washington, IL 61571
Though our hearts are broken by this loss, we are grateful beyond words for the gift of having known and loved Mark. His laughter, warmth, kindness, and love will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will be cherished forever. His spirit will live on in the lives he touched so deeply.
Rest in peace, Mark. You will be forever loved, always missed, and joyfully remembered until we meet again.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.
