Mark Alan Flaten

Mark Flaten, a cherished husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on September 27, 2025 at the age of 73.

Born on August 30, 1952, in Crookston, MN to Ronald and Mary (Maloney) Flaten. Mark grew up mainly in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School in 1970.

His remarkable work ethic started early. As a kid he worked at local gas stations and learned valuable mechanic skills. When he finished school he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a bricklayer. Mark’s attention to detail and commitment to quality showed in every project he was part of. For a short time, Mark became a car salesman when the construction industry was in a slowdown. He combined his talents of bricklaying and sales when he went to work selling brick for Strata Corporation. He loved the ability to solve problems that came up using his background in multiple fields. Hebron Brick Supply bought out the masonry division of Strata and he made the move, becoming the manager of Hebron in Grand Forks, a role he kept until his retirement in December 2017.

Mark was not only a dedicated professional but also a loving family man. He married his beloved wife Cynthia Jenson in 1974, and together they raised son Ryan and daughter Kristina. His proudest accomplishments included not only his marriage and his kids but also the joy of becoming a grandfather to Rebecca and Bradley. Mark cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.

Mark had an infectious enthusiasm for life, and was always on the go. One of his many talents was with music. He loved playing the guitar and especially his mandolin, and often performed with his band at a variety of venues. In addition, he enjoyed the freedom of riding his motorcycle, going on fishing excursions, and golfing with his buddies. However, racing was his true passion. Mark had a successful racing career that earned him an induction into the River Cities Speedway Hall of Fame. He treasured the time working side by side with his son and later his grandson during their racing careers.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Cindy; son Ryan (Heidi) Flaten; daughter Kristina (Mark) Fleming; grandchildren Rebecca and Bradley Flaten; brother Brian “Woody” (JoAnn) Flaten; mother-in-law Fran Jenson; sister-in-law Nancy (Rich) Trenery; brother-in-law Rod (Laura) Jenson; brother-in-law Bob Jenson; sister-in-law JoAnn (Jay) Taylor; and brother-in-law Randy (DeWonna) Jenson.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ronald and Mary Flaten; father-in-law Oscar Jenson; brother-in-law Ross Jenson; and sister-in-law Lisa Jenson.

A Memorial Service will take place at Amundson Funeral Home at 9:00am on Saturday, October 4, 2025. Visitation will take place one hour prior to service at Amundson Funeral Home. A reception will follow at the Alerus Center on Saturday from 12pm-4pm in meeting room 12. All guests will be required to use entrance 1.